As part of the Action Agenda process, the contributed ideas were compiled to guide municipalities. Municipal and community leaders used this critical feedback to identify priority action items for each of their communities, resulting in the Next Chapter Action Agenda.
Action Agenda for Nappanee
DOWNTOWN
Downtown Master Plan
The City of Nappanee will develop and implement a comprehensive Downtown Master Plan to build upon our growing vibrancy. The plan will address topics such as the Nappanee Civic Plaza, pedestrian safe connectivity on US 6 to downtown, building/facade design standards, mixed-use development, alleyway activation, sidewalks, seating, ADA needs, public art experiences, building acquisition processes, and other downtown needs.
PARKS & TRAILS
Connect Nappanee Parks
Nappanee will conduct a feasibility to address the benefits and challenges of connecting our five parks through a “Y” trail/path system for users.
Event and Recreation Center
Nappanee will explore opportunities to build out an Indoor/Outdoor Recreation and Event Center. Logistics considered for the space will include but not limited to public restrooms, skate park, sports and event programming, walking paths, fitness equipment, security,
management, and park offices.
Wa-Nee Visionary Trail Project
Nappanee will work in collaboration with the Town of Wakarusa to develop a pedestrian safe trail linking these close communities. The connection would be beneficial for each community and could help link these two communities to the larger trail network growing throughout the county.
ARTS & CULTURE
Nappanee Arts Council
Nappanee Arts will partner with the city in 2024 to create a historical timeline through the Art Alley in celebration of their city’s 150th anniversary. They will continue their progressive path of seeking new ways to partner and engage their community through classes, free art space, organization/supporting events, and artwork displays which help to engage visitors and residents in Nappanee.
Music Activation
Nappanee will explore musical events, activities, and/or festivals. Music expression is a wonderful way to engage our residents and visitors, and a great place for up-and-coming musicians to gain exposure, practice their craft, and share their passion for music with others.
NEIGHBORHOOD PROJECTS & PROGRAMS
Housing and Homebuyer Programs
Nappanee will explore incentives for housing developers, consider homebuyer subsidy programs (in possible partnership with local businesses), and will evaluate opportunities to build out a diversified portfolio of housing options to the south of town which could meet the town’s growing need for housing due to population growth.
150th Anniversary Celebration
In the fall of 2024, Nappanee will celebrate its Sesquicentennial as part of the annual Apple Festival held in the fall. As part of the celebration, this close-knit community of friends, family, and neighbors will join together to open two very special historical Time Capsules.
VOLUNTEERISM & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Promote a Spirit of Volunteerism
Nappanee will create, share, and celebrate volunteer opportunities. We will help promote Elkhart County’s Acts of Service Volunteer hub and communicate the importance of giving back to the community
.
Implementing the Plan
This Action Agenda is a community-based plan at its core. Vibrant Communities, supported by the Community Foundation of Elkhart County and the Elkhart County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc, came together to fund and facilitate the development of the agenda for the communities of Elkhart County. Vibrant Communities will continue in its role in monitoring and supporting implementation activities.
In addition to their ongoing support, successful implementation will also depend on coordinated efforts of individuals and organizations representing the public, private, and civic sectors across the communities, including:
ORGANIZATIONS
Local organizations have been tasked with a great deal of responsibility in the Action Agenda implementation plan. Through new partnerships and strategic investments of time and resources, these organizations can help implement actions and expand the reach of their network.
PRIVATE BUSINESSES
The Action Agenda reveals a lot about the preferences of Elkhart County. The business community would do well in taking advantage of these preferences through strategic investments. Entrepreneurs may find niche opportunities within the recommendations.
INSTITUTIONS
Through their leadership and resources, local and regional institutions can play a key role in implementation. Their support will help to intensify the impact of each action and forge new relationships with other leaders and organizations.
With the power to shape policy, direct community resources, and represent the public, elected officials have an important role in implementation. The action items show clear evidence of thoughtful and inclusive conversations with the community – one leaders can stand behind with confidence.
