Plans have been revealed for the redevelopment of the Gary Union Station at 251 Broadway in Gary Indiana. Sandwiched between multiple rail tracks and I-90, the relatively isolated historical building sits just north of the heart of downtown Gary whose redevelopment we recently covered. The project is being led by local preservationist group The Decay Devils and developer Digital Equity LLC who are working with an undisclosed architect.
Site context plan of Gary Union Station via Google Maps
Just four years after the City of Gary was established, Union Station was opened in 1910 in the Beaux-Arts style. Innovative at its time, the building used the trailblazing constructing technique of cast-in-place concrete which has since become popular globally and seen across Chicago. Its grand hall welcomed visitors for the Baltimore and Ohio lines as well as the New York Central Railroad, with service all the way to DC and Toronto.
Current view of Gary Union Station via Northwest Indiana Business
Dwindling ridership and the closure of the city’s main steel mills led to its closure and abandonment in the 1970’s, falling into disrepair with its roof now having collapsed. This is where Decay Devils came in, a group made up of urban explorers who dedicated themselves to saving the structure and eventually became its owner. After years of grants they have teamed up with Digital Equity on the $8 million restoration.
Current view inside of Gary Union Station by Digital Equity
The majority of the work will focus on rebuilding the structure’s roof, replacing its windows, and restoring its facilities, as its concrete walls have remained structurally viable even after 50-years of abandonment. Inside the group hopes to create a new tech innovation center across its 10,000 square-feet of space dubbed the Fiber Smart House. This will be utilized to conduct workforce training as well as an incubator space for new tech businesses.
Rendering of Gary Union Station redevelopment by Digital Equity
The space will be available for the public and also serve as hub for network operations and fiber access point for large networks. The surrounding grounds will also be renovated with a new entry plaza, fountain playspace, and more. The rear one-story building is also earmarked for a public multi-use space as well and potentially a restaurant.
A groundbreaking for the project has been held with an anticipated opening date of fall 2024 having also been announced.
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That’s really beautiful. Super happy they’re saving this gem.
I thought for a minute they were going to use it as a station again.
Go Gary Go!!! It’s finally Gary’s time and I am here for it!
I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE IT COMPLETED.