WHY IS CARVER CENTER NEEDED?

With the many improvements taking place in Peoria's south side, Carver Center is needed more than ever. Some of these improvements will bring families to the area while others will bring jobs. The new families will bring a greater need for Carver's after-school programs, such as tutoring, sports and the other recreational activities. The new jobs will increase the demand for our Day Care. All the of following improvements are located around 1 mile or less from the Carver Center. As you can see, Carver Center is located in the heart of this development. Below is a list of just some of the improvements taking place on Peoria's south side.

Caterpillar Training Facility: In 1983, Caterpillar, Inc. constructed Phase I of their Southtown Training Facility. Unfortunately, due to a slowing economy, the structure was left virtually dormant for several years. A strengthened economy has created the conditions upon which the facility's potential is now being realized. In fact, a $2 million building/parking lot renovation was recently completed. Caterpillar is the leading employer within the Southtown Redevelopment Area.

Hightower Apartments: The Dinerstein Companies (Houston, TX) have made a $14.5 million investment in a 160-unit multi-family complex. This affordable housing project received the second largest allocation of low-income housing tax credits from the Illinois Housing Development Authority in 1997. Peoria Construction Company is serving as general contractor for the project, which is scheduled for completion in September 1998.

Methodist Medical Center/U of I - College of Medicine at Peoria: Methodist Medical Center and the University of Illinois - College of Medicine at Peoria are collaborating on construction of a 24,000 square-foot medical office and teaching clinic, scheduled for completion in August 1998.

Peoria Ear, Nose and Throat Group SC: Peoria Ear Nose and Throat Group SC is making a $3.5 million investment in a 24,500 square-foot medical office and surgery center in City Center Plaza. This project is scheduled for completion in December 1998.

Peoria Park District - John H Gwynn Jr Park: This park already includes basketball courts, a park pavilion,softball field, tennis courts and youth soccer area has expanded to include a new baseball and soccer field. In addition, a new aquatic center, featuring a new pool, renovated bathhouse, and other water facilities, is to be completed in August 1998.

Southtown Business Park: The City of Peoria, in collaboration with DDM Partnership, has initiated site clean-up activities in Southtown Business Park. A 14,600 "spec" building is to be constructed in the Summer 1998. Financing for this structure includes a $100,000 investment from The Heartland Community Development Corporation.

Spring Grove Subdivision: Eight single-family homes have been constructed in Spring Grove Subdivision. Another 35 vacant lots are available - at no cost - to prospective home buyers. The Prudential Cullinan Properties, Ltd. serves as the Designated Developer for this project on behalf of the City of Peoria.

Star of Hope Baptist Church: After purchasing 36,000 square feet of property from the City of Peoria, Star of Hope Baptist Church expanded their facilities to include a fellowship hall and classroom space. A parking lot with an additional 44 spaces was also constructed.

Valley Park Shopping Center: A local developer purchased this property and completed $1 million in renovations and upgrades. Three new tenants (CEFCU, Dollar General Stores, and a Shell Gas Station) were added to the existing shopping center. Approximately 35 people are employed at this facility.

Warner Homes: In October 1997, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded $16.1 million to the Peoria Housing Authority (PHA) to renovate their existing facilities. These funds were made available through the $498-million Hope VI Program, which provided grants to 27 cities nationwide. The PHA plans to refurbish Warner Homes by replacing existing multi-floor row housing with spaced town homes and single family units. This agency also intends to increase the median income at Warner Homes from $4,900 to $18,000, and lower the density by relocating some families to other housing facilities. The grant will also be used to encourage new small businesses and retail opportunities to open in the area. Once completed, approximately 80% of the newly refurbished units will be made available to heads of households who are either employed, or in job training and educational programs. Home ownership opportunities for at least 80 residents (50 within Warner Homes and 30 through Peoria) are also planned.

The above information was provided by the City of Peoria Economic Developmental Council.