Main St. Mile Initiative (Taylor University)

In 2024 Taylor University was awarded $30 million from the Lily Endowment to increase the connection between campus and downtown Upland, IN, known as the Main Street Mile Initiative. Civitas Strategies was hired to lead a team consisting of Context Design, CSO Architects, and HWC Engineering that guides the University and the Town throughout the Initiative. The project is centered on creating a shared vision for reinvestment, business development, and placemaking, with a strong emphasis on public engagement and data-informed decision-making. By assessing current conditions, capturing the aspirations of stakeholders, and identifying actionable opportunities, the initiative aims to empower Taylor University, the Town of Upland and their partners to shape a Main Street that better reflects the identity, needs, and potential of the community it serves.