ECIRPD Second Quarterly Meeting of 2026
The ECI Regional Planning District held its second quarterly board meeting of 2026, bringing together board members and staff to review financial activity, discuss ongoing projects, and share updates on regional initiatives and grant opportunities across East Central Indiana.
Audit & Financial Review
During the meeting, the board reviewed financial reports and discussed the completion of the State Board of Accounts (SBOA) 2022 – 2025 audit. The audit was completed efficiently with minimal issues identified and no corrective actions required.
Professional Development & Statewide Engagement
ECIRPD staff members Michelle Badders and Bill Walters attended the Purdue Road School Transportation Conference & Expo this spring alongside INDOT representatives and transportation professionals from across Indiana. The conference provided valuable insight into updated transportation procedures and policies while also creating opportunities to build connections with industry leaders throughout the state.
In addition, Officer of Community Engagement Anna King-Cross completed Ball State University’s Indiana Economic Development Course from May 4th through May 8th. The intensive week-long program focused on strengthening leadership and knowledge in community and economic development practices.
Federal & Economic Development Updates
ECIRPD representatives also met with USDA staff to discuss grant opportunities available to support regional growth initiatives. During the meeting, USDA officials shared guidance on several grant programs ECIRPD may pursue.
The board also received updates regarding ECIRPD’s progress toward obtaining Economic Development District (EDD) designation. The organization’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) has been completed, and EDD application materials have been submitted. Two sections of the application have already been accepted, while two additional sections were returned for narrative edits. Once finalized, the designation is expected to expand access to federal funding opportunities and economic development services for the region.
Regional Projects & Conferences
Staff shared highlights from the recent SelectUSA Conference, where ECIRPD representatives spent four days participating in meetings and networking opportunities focused on international economic development. The conference generated several promising leads, with some prospective partners expected to visit Delaware County later this fall.
The board also discussed ongoing progress surrounding the Marion Airport aviation training and maintenance project. The proposal seeks EDA disaster supplemental funding to support flight training expansion and the development of an aviation maintenance program. The project continues moving through a consolidated RFP and partner review process and could create high-paying regional employment opportunities if funded.
Community Grant & Project Updates
Anna King-Cross also provided updates on several local grant projects and community initiatives currently underway across the region.
ECIRPD has supported Liberty-Perry Schools in securing funding for the development of an all-inclusive playground designed to serve children of all abilities. Through coordination efforts, partnership-building, and identifying grant opportunities, ECIRPD helped move the project forward and strengthen collaboration among community organizations. Those efforts contributed to securing $60,000 in funding from the Delaware County Redevelopment Commission, along with additional support from partners including the Delaware County Community Foundation and Muncie Altrusa. Construction is currently anticipated to begin in August.
Additional updates included support received through Walmart’s Spark Good Program, which awarded funding for back-to-school initiatives and classroom supplies for children and families in need.
The board also received a progress update on the Jay County Mural Project. After nearly two years of planning, fundraising, collaboration, and grant writing, the project has officially secured the funding necessary to move forward. Project creation is currently anticipated to begin in Fall 2026.
Additionally, the Town of Swayzee was awarded $293,697.85 through the Community Crossings Matching Grant Program following a recent reallocation of funding. The grant will support local infrastructure improvements and continued investment in the town’s transportation network.
Upcoming Workshop
Looking ahead, ECIRPD will host a Financial Literacy Workshop on June 30th from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Centennial Library in Muncie. The workshop is designed to provide community members with valuable financial education resources and tools.
Seeking Partners for the Thriving Communities Grant
ECIRPD is also currently seeking partner organizations to pursue the Norfolk Southern Thriving Communities Grant. This program supports initiatives focused on sustainability, workforce development, and strengthening community resiliency efforts across the region. Contact Anna King-Cross at aking-cross@ecirpd.org to learn more.
As ECIRPD continues through 2026, the organization remains focused on strengthening regional partnerships, pursuing new funding opportunities, and supporting projects that promote long-term economic and community development throughout East Central Indiana.