That spirit was on full display at the Forge ECI Annual Luncheon on June 4, where business leaders, elected officials, community stakeholders, and economic development partners gathered to discuss the opportunities shaping the future of the region.

The centerpiece of the event was a regional mayors panel featuring Mayor Dan Eckstein of Hartford City, Mayor Ronald Morrell of Marion, Mayor Bill Rock Jr. of Gas City, Mayor Greg York of New Castle, Mayor Chad Spence of Union City, Mayor Mike Pavey of Rushville, and Mayor Ron Oler of Richmond.

Together, the mayors shared updates on economic development projects, workforce initiatives, housing investments, infrastructure improvements, and quality-of-life enhancements taking place in their communities. While each community faces unique opportunities and challenges, the discussion highlighted a shared commitment to growth and regional success.

A Shared Vision for Growth

Throughout the conversation, the mayors discussed the projects helping move their communities forward while addressing some of the most pressing issues facing local governments today.

Topics included workforce attraction and retention, housing availability, downtown development, infrastructure needs, and the importance of creating communities where residents and businesses can thrive. The discussion underscored how local leadership, strategic planning, and community partnerships continue to drive meaningful progress across the region.

At the same time, the panel reinforced an important theme: the success of East Central Indiana depends not only on the strength of individual communities but also on the willingness of those communities to work together.

Regional collaboration continues to create opportunities that extend beyond county lines, helping communities attract investment, strengthen their economies, and improve quality of life for residents.

The Impact of READI Investments

The luncheon also highlighted the transformative impact of Indiana’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) programs across East Central Indiana.

Through investments in housing, quality-of-place amenities, workforce development, and economic growth projects, READI funding has accelerated opportunities throughout the region and strengthened local communities.

Today, East Central Indiana ranks among Indiana’s top-performing READI 1.0 regions for fund disbursement, with more than 90 percent of awarded funds already invested in projects that are creating lasting impact across the nine-county region.

From recreation amenities and downtown revitalization efforts to housing developments and workforce initiatives, these investments are helping communities turn long-term visions into reality.

Building on Regional Momentum

The progress being made across East Central Indiana reflects the strength of the partnerships that exist between local governments, economic development organizations, employers, nonprofits, and community leaders.

Communities throughout the region continue to demonstrate their ability to identify opportunities, develop impactful projects, and move those projects from concept to completion. That momentum not only benefits local residents but also strengthens the region’s position as a competitive place to live, work, invest, and do business.

As the mayors shared their successes and future priorities, one message became clear: East Central Indiana is stronger when communities support one another and pursue a shared vision for growth.

Looking Ahead

The Forge ECI Annual Luncheon served as both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the opportunities that lie ahead.

As communities continue investing in housing, workforce development, infrastructure, quality-of-place amenities, and business growth, East Central Indiana is laying the foundation for long-term success. Through collaboration, innovation, and strong local leadership, the region is transforming opportunity into action and creating a brighter future for residents across all nine counties.

Forge ECI is proud to work alongside community leaders, economic development partners, and local stakeholders who are helping shape the next chapter of East Central Indiana’s growth story.