VERMILLION COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Visitors to the Vermillion Rise Mega Park will soon be welcomed by a newly renovated entrance thanks to a donation from the Duke Energy Foundation.
According to a release, the Duke Energy Foundation has given a $25,000 grant to the organization to improve the building’s visual appeal.
“First impressions matter when competing for economic development investments,” said Stan Pinegar, president of Duke Energy Indiana. “Vermillion Rise Mega Park’s administrative building serves as a gateway for prospective investors and companies to learn about all the site has to offer as they consider relocating or expanding their operations here. By funding these aesthetic improvements, we hope to help them put their best foot forward when competing for business.”
Initially built in the 1970s, the 30,000-square-foot, three-story building will have improvements made to its main gate and gatehouse, while some of the money will be used to replace rusted barbed wire fencing.
Other pieces of the project include new paint for many rooms and hallways, replaced light fixtures, and even new locks for doors that will allow after-hours access, and expanded Wi-Fi coverage through the facility.
“The Vermillion Rise Mega Park holds considerable promise to realize impactful economic development opportunities for West Central Indiana,” said Joe Ellis, chairman of the Newport Chemical Depot Reuse Authority, which manages the operations and redevelopment of Vermillion Rise Mega Park. “Gaining the confidence of investors is key when we’re persuading them to invest here, and Duke Energy’s support will help us ensure our facility reflects the exciting opportunity that exists at this site.”
