The Vincennes Redevelopment Commission is moving forward on several projects aimed at improving local neighborhoods and infrastructure.
Plans are taking shape for a new housing rehabilitation program that would purchase and renovate rundown homes within TIF districts. The goal is to target properties that private investors typically avoid, with the hope that fixing the worst homes will encourage further investment nearby. The commission is working to draft a formal contract for a general contractor to manage the work, outlining responsibilities, spending limits, and reporting requirements. Officials say this approach could help revitalize entire blocks by improving neighborhood stability and property values.
Meanwhile, the city’s Hart Street sidewalk project is moving into the bidding phase. Sidewalks will be extended from the CVS entrance to the curb ramp near McDonald’s. A pre-bid meeting is set for this week, and the city hopes to open bids on July 14 and award a contract by July 28. The goal is to complete the project by Thanksgiving. The Indiana Department of Transportation is expected to continue sidewalk improvements over the nearby bridge as part of a resurfacing project in 2027 or 2028.
City officials are also preparing for a major overhaul of Richard Bauer Drive. The road, which serves area schools and is seeing increasing traffic from nearby developments, will be fully reconstructed due to subgrade failure. The project includes ditch drainage, a sidewalk, and a multi-use trail on the school side of the street. The estimated cost is $2.3 million, with the city seeking half of that through the state’s Community Crossings grant. If funded, construction would begin in 2027.
