IU project to benefit Jasper Comprehensive Plan

The Indiana University School of Public & Environment Affairs (SPEA) has teamed with the City of Jasper for a summer graduate Capstone project that will provide input affecting the city’s update of its comprehensive plan.

SPEA Capstone courses are intended to address topics that integrate public policy, management, and science/technology in an interdisciplinary framework. The class will involve a group project or case study that requires students from around the world with very different backgrounds and skills to work together in a collaborative learning format.

The class will focus on evaluating a mixed-use neighborhood near downtown Jasper; evaluating public-private-partnership options; assess a downtown/riverfront activation plan; make recommendations for future development projects with analysis of market/employment and project costs and funding options for implementation.

The classes recommendations will be presented publicly at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 24 in the Council Chambers at Jasper City Hall.

“I am always interested to receive outside perspectives on Jasper,” said Community Development & Planning Director Darla Blazey, “I look forward to the ideas and recommendations generated from this group of students on the city’s key redevelopment areas.”

SPEA classes have assisted Mitchell, Ellettsville, Bedford, South Bend, Bloomington and other Indiana communities in planning and development initiatives.