Bloomington City Manager Jeff Jurgens said he's pleased with the redevelopment of the former Pantagraph print building on West Jefferson Street in the city's downtown.
“We're excited to see this building back in action,” said Jurgens. “The city is committed to making development easier, helping businesses thrive and bringing new energy to downtown.”
The print building has reopened with the 8 Bit Arcade, a retro-style video game and pinball arcade and bar on the main floor, according to a city news release. The Hockey Foundry is putting a training facility upstairs with synthetic ice. That allows for year-round skating, shooting and skill development without the need for a full rink.
The Hockey Foundry is relocating from West Chestnut Street.
This is the third redevelopment agreement approved by Bloomington City Council in recent months. The agreement has incentives tied to what the property produces over time.
“This is part of a bigger shift downtown,” said Mayor Dan Brady. “We’re adding housing, new business and different kinds of experiences that make downtown a place people choose to spend time.”
Last week, the council approved a Unified Development Ordinance amendment to support redevelopment of the former State Farm building. That will have more than 180 apartments, a top-floor restaurant and a first-floor food hall and retail space. Work is also moving forward on the former CVS building to introduce new residential and commercial use into apartments businesses, and a restaurant, said the city.
