Batesville redevelopment project in the works
Apr. 28—BATESVILLE — According to Mayor John Irrgang, the City of Batesville is on the cusp of a tremendous opportunity for redevelopment in its downtown business district.
"As a new mayor, it's important to me that I proactively communicate with the citizens of Batesville about prospective growth in the community that might be impactful to them," Irrgang said. "This is why I wanted to share the information that we have, even though there are still unanswered questions about the project."
Several months ago, local business owner Lisa Hutson approached both Mayor Irrgang and Sarah Lamping, Economic Development Director, to discuss her vision for the future growth of her company. Hutson is the owner of Cosawove (previously known as Hiviz), a certified woman-owned business based in Sunman that focuses on manufacturing and delivering workwear.
Cosawove has experienced tremendous growth over the past few years and Hutson was looking for possible locations to support additional growth and expansion.
Over the past months, Hutson and her team have researched possible expansion locations in both Indianapolis and Cincinnati, as well as on both the east and west coasts of the United States.
Batesville Community Development Director Angela Linville indicates in a press release that after thoughtful consideration, those involved in the early stages of this potential opportunity are pleased to share that Hutson has entered into contracts to purchase two downtown buildings previously owned by Baxter (this includes the property previously known as the HillRom Training Center and the property previously known as the AP Building), as well as The Sherman, Biergarten, and Bier Hall Event Factory.
While Hutson is planning to move her current Cosawove operations from their existing location and into this space, she also has a much grander vision for the properties which will benefit many more residents of Batesville and the surrounding area, the release states.
The development plan for the 250,000 square feet of property includes continuation of the restaurant and hotel operation, as well as housing, shopping, training and education opportunities, and much more.
"This has the potential to bring revitalization, energy, and industry to our downtown and our overall community," the release states.
This project is not a done deal, according to the release, which indicates that as is the case with any project of this magnitude, there are many variables and, in this case, there are still some outstanding obstacles.
"While much of the project is ready to move forward, I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge to the public that there are still a few hurdles ahead," Mayor Irrgang said.
The mayor said he will keep the public informed as the project plan progresses.
Questions may be directed to www.batesvilleindiana.us.
