(LEFT) Retired Sheridan teacher Kim Hogge created this sketch of the town’s new Art Alley. (RIGHT) Jennifer Miller, Director of Planning and Development for Sheridan, meets with community members and master students from the Basile Center to discuss the mural design. (Photos provided)
Submitted
Sheridan Main Street, Inc., a 501(3)(c) Indiana Main Street organization, has announced its next phase for investment in Sheridan’s downtown, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The organization has qualified for a CreatINg Places grant that would provide $100,000 to complete an Art Alley as a public space, enhancing the quality of life in the community.
The organization, in partnership with town leadership, is in year three of a matching grant façade program supporting the owners of 38 historic buildings. To date, $800,000 has been invested in securing sustainability and protecting the historic integrity of those valued buildings. That work continues.
An extended phase for restoration of the Sheridan community is to enhance public spaces and to connect downtown with the northernmost trailhead on the popular Monon Trail through a stunningly unique Art Alley. The Art Alley will be located at 5th and Main streets between the Sheridan Fire Department and Keever’s Hardware.
The Alley is designed around a mural being developed in partnership with the Basile Center for Art, Design, and Public Life at the Herron School of Art. The mural will be enhanced by three arches, benches, and plantings to create a welcoming gathering space drawing visitors and residents to the heart of the community.
The Art Alley isn’t just about beautification; it’s about preserving the history while remaining connected to a place where people want to gather, shop, and dine.
Enhancing public spaces in Sheridan has always been at the forefront of desired enhancements of the downtown area. The CreatINg Places grant works through a Patronicity crowdgranting process and with the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA), assuring that the alley becomes a reality.
Sheridan Main Street’s goal is to raise $50,000 so in order to receive a matching $50,000 from IHCDA. Giving levels are such that everyone can be a part of this exciting project.
Support this community-powered project and unlock the full match. Just go to Patronicity.com/SheridanArtAlley. Find your level of giving and give something to continue the transformation of Sheridan, the hometown we love.
Learn more about Sheridan Main Street, Inc. and its work at SheridanMainStreet.org.
