LAWRENCE CO. – The Uplands Regional Land Bank is actively working to acquire, manage, maintain, and repurpose vacant, abandoned, and deteriorated (VAD) properties across several counties in southern Indiana, including Lawrence, Martin, Daviess, Greene, Orange, and Crawford.
The organization aims to combat blight, increase neighboring property values, and support economic development within these communities.
According to the Land Bank, these VAD properties can negatively impact surrounding areas if left unaddressed. By taking control of these properties, the Land Bank seeks to provide communities with the opportunity to repurpose them in ways that align with local values and needs. This can include rehabilitation projects, constructing new homes, or creating shovel-ready sites for future development.
The Uplands Regional Land Bank focuses on acquiring several types of properties:
- Vacant Properties: Real estate properties that are currently empty, unoccupied, and possibly unclaimed.
- Abandoned Properties: Personal property or real estate left by the owner and is no longer maintained. These properties are often unoccupied and may be fire-damaged, destroyed by natural disasters, or have deteriorated over time.
- Deteriorated Properties: Real estate properties lose value due to physical wear and tear or other elements over time. Health, housing, or building inspections frequently deem them unfit for habitation.
To further its mission, the Uplands Regional Land Bank is actively seeking to connect with contractors interested in collaborating on developing and rehabilitating their properties. This partnership aims to bring local expertise to the revitalization process.
“We are also looking for local talent like contractors, junk removal, landscapers, and others who can assist with the projects,” said Bobbie Abel. “We are also looking for seven cell phone tower properties.”
The Uplands Regional Land Bank encourages individuals and contractors interested in learning more or getting involved to reach out through the following contact information:
- Phone: 812-295-3707
- Email: urlandbank@sidc.cc
- Website: urlandbank.com
The Land Bank’s efforts represent a proactive approach to community improvement. They address the challenges posed by neglected properties and foster opportunities for growth and development in the region.
