The Economic Development Corp. Michigan City's fourth annual Power Breakfast will feature a transportation development district discussion between two mayors.
Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch and Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott will share the projects that will define their city's economic development efforts around train stations.
Sherri Ziller, president and CEO of the NWI Regional Development Authority, will moderate the discussion.
The Double Track Northwest Indiana project added a second set of tracks between Gary and Michigan City. It allows more trains, making Michigan City an easy commute. Operations began on that expanded system in May 2024. The Monon Corridor, a new north-south route between Hammond and Dyer, is expected to begin service in March. Both projects are creating economic development opportunities for the towns they serve.
“Having Hammond’s TOD as an anchor in the west and Michigan City’s in the east is a vital component to creating opportunities in Northwest Indiana along the South Shore Line and beyond,” said Economic Development Corp. Michigan City Executive Director Clarence Hulse in a press release.
Michigan City recently opened the refurbished 11th Street Station, along with the mixed-use The Franklin at 11th Street development. Residents will begin moving in this year. Hammond will focus on the new Hammond Gateway Station.
The Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District and the NWI-RDA predict that the $1.5 billion combined rail investment will lead to at least $2.5 billion in private investment in the next 20 years. Learn more in Doug Ross' February-March Northwest Indiana Business Magazine story here.
“Beyond the Station – The Power of TODs” will take place from 7:30 to 10 a.m. March 25 at the Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa, 777 Blue Chip Drive. Tickets are $40 and are sold here.
