Taylor University is Enhancing the Quality of Life in Upland, IN

Jamie Atherton

Forging a strong bond is often a common goal between colleges and the communities in which they reside. But in Upland, things have been taken a step further, as a project called the Main Street Mile Initiative is in the works to literally connect Taylor University to the East Central Indiana city’s downtown.

Main Street Mile Initiative

The initiative is a $100 million community and economic development plan that encompasses numerous projects. These include a new mixed-use development, a destination restaurant, a boutique hotel, a park, miles of trails and nearly 100 housing units. While the initiative comprises multiple aspects, the goal is singular: Enhance quality of life in Upland, Indiana.

“Upland has been home to Taylor University since 1893, and we have a long history of collaboration with our community,” says Dr. D. Michael Lindsay, president of Taylor University. “We think this next chapter is an exciting one, as Upland and Taylor work together to build a thriving, growing community.”

Tailoring Solutions

Taylor University and its supporting economic and community development organization, 1846 Enterprises, received a $30 million College and Community Collaboration grant from the Lilly Endowment to fund the Main Street Mile Initiative.

“The grant, coupled with robust private investment, allows all of these projects to be launched within the next four years, kick-starting Upland’s economic engine and sparking a new era of growth,” says Andrea Masvero, executive director of 1846 Enterprises. 

The Main Street Mile Initiative will depend on guidance from 1846 Enterprises. The organization’s name refers to the founding of Taylor University in 1846, and its existence highlights Taylor’s commitment to the success and vitality of Upland. 

While most of the projects listed in the grant proposal had been identified as needs for years, they previously lacked funding. Securing the College and Community Collaboration grant helped attract additional public and private funding for the initiative as well as greater business interest.

“These projects, which will be transformational to the Upland community for generations to come, would not be possible without funding from the endowment,” Masvero says.

Growth in Upland

The Main Street Mile begins its journey at a time of unprecedented growth at Taylor University, including record enrollment and another $100 million in campus renovations and new construction.

The university aims to enhance quality of life in Upland for the influx of students, faculty and staff as well as for the broader Grant County community, according to Masvero.

“Local residents know that Upland is a great place to live, learn, raise a family, work and retire,” she says.

“We are excited about the possibility of welcoming more people and businesses to experience this charming community.”