IU Northwest included in University Park revitalization plans

By Lucas Kora, Staff writer of the Northwest Phoenix student newspaper

While what has been discussed in recent meetings and public forums only has been “a picture of what could be done,” said IU Northwest Chancellor Bruce Bergland, judging from the positive response so far, the picture could become reality.

Included in the proposal is a facelift for the area. For example, beautifying the area includes a tree-lined median for Broadway Avenue. As far as IU Northwest is concerned, a larger, more obvious entryway onto campus is conceivable. An expanded parking area and a new theater/auditorium are other possible upgrades.

Another project goal would be to attract businesses such as groceries, video stores and restaurants to the Glen Park area in order to alleviate safety concerns that have surfaced in recent years. Many of the minds behind the proposal believe that bringing community businesses to the area also brings more people, attention and public exposure, which will help to reduce crime levels.

Anna Rominger, dean of the IU Northwest School of Business and Economics whose background is as a practicing attorney, is rejuvenating the long-forgotten Glen Park Merchant Association. The association will be “intimately involved” with the area facelift, Rominger explained, and its members will consist of area businesses owners. The coalition will help decide where new businesses are to be located and how the town should be redesigned to best include the new businesses.

For now, talks are underway concerning building and financing. The architectural firm of Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill of Chicago is working on designs.