Muncie Officials Draft Plans For $50M Riverfront Project

MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) — The city of Muncie has drafted plans for a nearly $50 million riverfront canal project Mayor Dennis Tyler says could have a "game-changing" effect on the central Indiana city.

The proposal includes a pedestrian bridge over the White River and four-story buildings with commercial space on the first floor and residential units above. The development would include restaurants and shops catering to lifestyle and fitness pursuits.

The project would capitalize on a storm sewer project that will channel storm water into a new canal and into the White River.

City officials are seeking state funding for the proposed $48 million project that would include private funding and tax increment financing.

Tyler tells The Star Press the riverfront project would create hundreds of construction jobs and about 100 permanent jobs.