Mrvan lands $2.6M in federal funds for Gary, Michigan City improvements

The $1.2 trillion federal spending package signed into law Tuesday by Republican President Donald Trump includes money designated by U.S. Rep. Frank J. Mrvan, D-Highland, for community and economic development projects in Gary and Michigan City.

The Northwest Indiana congressman successfully earmarked nearly $2.6 million in Community Project Funding requests in the federal transportation and urban development spending plan — on top of the $4.5 million Mrvan secured for Region police technology improvements in January.

In Gary, the money will go toward the demolition of the dilapidated and abandoned Ivanhoe Elementary School ($1.1 million) and to support the construction of a heavy cargo logistics apron for multiple users at the Gary/Chicago International Airport ($850,000).

Another $625,000 will be spent in Michigan City to fund the renovation of a multi-use community resource center.

"I believe the federal government has a responsibility to stand with all communities across Northwest Indiana, big cities, small towns and neighborhoods that are rolling up their sleeves to rebuild and create work and wealth for their residents," Mrvan said.

"The funding for the Gary/Chicago International Airport is an investment in jobs and economic growth for our Region. The airport is a vital economic hub for Northwest Indiana. By expanding cargo operations, attracting private investment and supporting initiatives pursued by the City of Gary and the state of Indiana, this funding will help bring new businesses, create good-paying jobs and open the door to new passenger services for residents."

Mrvan also said removing or renovating long-neglected properties in Gary and Michigan City gives local leaders a helping hand toward clearing blight, stabilizing neighborhoods and putting land and buildings back to use.

"When we rebuild housing and commercial corridors, we strengthen communities and restore local pride. These are responsible investments that respect taxpayer dollars and deliver real results for working families," Mrvan said.

Democratic Gary Mayor Eddie Melton commended Mrvan "for his persistence and unwavering advocacy in Washington" on behalf of the Steel City and all of Northwest Indiana.

"Congressman Mrvan's ability to deliver these results proves that when local and federal leadership work in lockstep, we deliver real wins for our residents. We are ready to put these dollars to work immediately," Melton said.

Mrvan, a former North Township trustee, has represented Lake, Porter and northwest LaPorte counties in the U.S. House since 2021.