Heartland Art Center awarded $500,000 in READI 2.0 funding to begin historic renovation

Anna Kietzman, President of the Heartland Art Center, announced Thursday morning that the organization was awarded $500,000 in funding through Indiana’s READI 2.0 initiative.

Kietzman said, “This significant investment, made possible through the support of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and the South Bend Elkhart Regional Development Authority (RDA), will allow us to begin the transformation of the historic Montgomery Ward building at 214 North Michigan Street in Plymouth, which has been our home since March 2024.”

This READI 2.0 award comes from a highly competitive selection process. 53 projects were submitted across the region, but only 13 were chosen, and the Heartland Art Center is honored to be among them. Kietzman said, “With only $42.5 million available, this award reflects the importance of our vision and the incredible support from our community.”

This funding will support critical first steps in the renovation, including repairing the roof to protect the building's structure.

They will also be able to install an elevator to ensure accessibility for everyone and address essential building safety and remediation measures to create a secure and welcoming environment. READI 2.0 funding will also help transform the mezzanine and second floor into business offices and versatile event spaces for performances, community gatherings, and cultural programming.

In her announcement, Kietzman said, “These improvements mark the beginning of our vision to transform this 23,000-square-foot historic building into a regional arts hub that preserves its legacy while fostering creativity, education, and community engagement.”

The Heartland Art Center thanked Brent Martin of SRKM Architecture, enFocus, Inc., Mayor Listenberger, and the City of Plymouth for their steadfast support in bringing this project to life. Kietzman said, “We are deeply grateful to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation and the South Bend Elkhart Regional Development Authority for recognizing the potential of this project and investing in the arts and culture of our community.”

They also expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Heartland Art Center members and Board of Directors, whose enthusiasm and vision for an arts hub in Plymouth have driven this project.

Since this project represents a shared commitment to revitalizing downtown Plymouth, fostering the arts, and driving economic growth across Marshall County and the northern Indiana region, we also greatly appreciate the letters of support and encouragement from many community partners, including:

• Marshall County Council and Marshall County Commissioners
• Our local arts partners: The Wild Rose Moon, The REES Theater, Marshall County Museum, MoonTree Studios & Bremen Arts Collective
• Marshall County Community Foundation
• Marshall County Economic Development Corporation
• ONE Marshall County
• Marshall County Tourism Commission
• Plymouth Community School Corporation & Marian University Ancilla College
• And many more.

Kietzman closed her statement by saying, “To further support this transformative endeavor, we are excited to announce the launch of a capital campaign in early 2025. We invite all community members, businesses, and organizations to join us in making this vision a reality.”