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Wabash Valley Art Spaces previews "Gathering Room" design; CIB funds, Ready 1 match and Oakley Foundation backing cover estimated $800,000–$900,000 cost
Summary
Wabash Valley Art Spaces presented concept designs and a funding plan for the Gathering Room — a phase-two component of the Turn to the River project — with a budget aligned to CIB-allocated funds, a Ready 1 match from 2023 and support from the Oakley Foundation.
Wabash Valley Art Spaces briefed the Vigo County Capital Improvement Board on Oct. 22 about designs and funding for the “Gathering Room,” a planned public plaza on the north side of City Hall that is part of phase two of the Turn to the River project.
Ellie Templeton, introduced as the new executive director of Art Spaces, said the nonprofit has engaged design firm Taylor Seifker Williams and expects the Gathering Room to accommodate small festivals, food-truck events, farmer’s markets and public art. “This is called the Gathering Room… designed to be an area where people can come together,” Templeton said, describing seating, elevated shade structures, hardscape, lighting, landscaping and two locations reserved for future commissioned sculpture.
Templeton said the project’s funding derives primarily from funds allocated by the CIB in 2023 as part of a Ready 1 match and additional support from the Oakley Foundation. She estimated a project budget “in the $800,000 to around $900,000 range,” which she said aligns with currently available funds.
Board members and Art Spaces board member Andy Thieves discussed next steps and future phases. Thieves framed the project as part of a longer riverfront plan with a later phase that would extend a promenade toward Wabash Avenue and a river overlook; he described that final connection as high-impact but a “heavy lift” financially. Templeton said the design is still conceptual and that Art Spaces aims to start a city-led bidding process in early 2026 with construction to follow.
Board members asked practical questions about shade orientation, artwork selection and whether the scope fits available funds. Templeton said the two sculpture sites are not yet programmed and invited board input on themes or honorees, noting early conversations included the possibility of honoring Native American groups associated with the riverfront. She also said the mayor and city engineer have reviewed the concept and provided feedback.
The presentation was informational; the board did not take formal action but welcomed further design progress and coordination with city permitting and bidding processes.
