LOOGOOTEE — The skyline of Loogootee is shifting as walls go up at Oak Street Village, a $14.6 million multi-use development designed to tackle two of the most persistent hurdles facing the Indiana Uplands: the shortage of affordable workforce housing and the “childcare desert” affecting local families.
Located at 507 North Oak Street, the project is a collaborative effort between the City of Loogootee, JBH Ventures, and state partners. Once completed, the village will serve as a cornerstone for community growth, aimed at attracting and retaining talent in Martin County.
The development will feature 50 modern apartment units, offering a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom layouts. Unlike many new builds, Oak Street Village is specifically zoned as workforce housing.
The units are reserved for households earning between 30% and 60% of the area median income (AMI), providing high-quality, stable housing for those who form the backbone of the local economy—from teachers and healthcare workers to manufacturing staff.
Kid City USA: 60 New Childcare Seats
Perhaps the most anticipated feature is the 4,500-square-foot licensed childcare facility. To be operated by Kid City USA, the center will include three classrooms and provide 58 to 60 new seats for young children.
This addition comes at a critical time for Indiana. Recent state reports indicate that over 30,000 children remain on waitlists for childcare vouchers, and many rural providers have been forced to close due to rising costs. The new facility in Loogootee aims to provide immediate relief for working parents who currently struggle to find reliable, local care.
The project’s momentum is fueled by a complex “capital stack” of state and local support:
- READI 2.0: Significant funding from the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative was used for vital site preparation, including excavation, water/sewer systems, and erosion control.
- IHCDA Support: The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority provided an $11.3 million tax credit allocation to ensure the project’s long-term affordability.
“By expanding workforce housing and childcare capacity, we are enhancing the community conditions necessary for attracting new industry expansions, jobs, and talent,” said Tina Peterson, President and CEO of Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI).
Community Perks and Timeline
Oak Street Village isn’t just about utility; it’s designed to be a vibrant neighborhood. The site plan includes:
- Recreation: A public playground, a private resident playground, and new pickleball courts.
- Support Services: On-site resources including financial literacy classes, job training, and guidance for first-time homebuyers.
- Gathering Spaces: A community center and public pavilion.
Construction is currently on track, with leasing expected to begin in the summer of 2026. Officials anticipate a completion date and grand opening in January 2027.
