Fighting for Community Regeneration

Gary, Indiana, is a city with deep roots and a powerful story of resilience. Once a thriving steel town, Gary has faced decades of economic decline—but today, community leaders and the University of Notre Dame’s School of Architecture are working together to rebuild its downtown and restore opportunity.

Through Notre Dame’s Housing and Community Regeneration Initiative, the city is developing a plan to revive its downtown, honor its history, and create a stronger future for residents. With community input and thoughtful urban design, Gary is charting a path toward social and economic renewal.