By Lindsay Doty
Plainfield town leaders held a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction for The Barlow development in downtown Plainfield.
The $22 million investment is a mixed-use project at 204. E. Main and is a key part of the town’s downtown makeover. It will include housing, commercial space and infrastructure improvements.
“Today is a historic day in Plainfield and a significant milestone in the implementation of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan,” Robin Brandgard, Town of Plainfield council president, said. “The Barlow is a high-quality development project that ushers in the next era for our downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. Momentum is building in Plainfield.”
Located on the northwest corner of S. Avon Avenue and Main Street (U.S. 40), the gateway project will welcome residents and visitors to downtown Plainfield.
The Barlow is a four-story brick building and includes 116 modern apartments, 3,000 square feet of commercial space and a surface parking lot with 154 spaces. Additional improvements include a bike path, courtyard and bike and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes.
“We worked closely with the Town of Plainfield to ensure The Barlow would uniquely meet the Town’s goals as set forth in their Master Plan,” Shelby Bowen, president of Rebar Development, said. “Future tenants will support the local businesses, restaurants, farmers’ market and shops along Main Street, while adding to the growth and vibrancy of downtown.”
The project brings density and quality rental housing options to the downtown corridor—a goal outlined in the Downtown Redevelopment Plan.
Named after James Milton Barlow, a local prominent business and serviceman from the late nineteenth century, The Barlow celebrates a part of Plainfield’s history and brings new energy to the area. Plans for the 3,000 square feet of commercial space include street-level, studio retail suites with high visibility along Main Street.
“The Barlow is a great fit for downtown,” Andrew Klinger, Plainfield Town Manager, said. “While meeting the critical needs for Plainfield’s vibrant future, it pays homage to our town’s entrepreneurial history.”
“Momentum continues to build in Downtown Plainfield with the announcement of their new Town Hall and Art Center. We are proud to be a part of this exciting time for this community,” Bowen said.
The Barlow is scheduled for completion in late 2020. For project updates or leasing information, contact Rebar Development at 317.670.7997 or visit rebardev.com.
Town leaders also recently started a new phase of the downtown overhaul that includes recommendations for a government center and a performing and fine arts center.
The plan is to construct the new facilities on the corner of Center Street and Main Street, replacing the existing Plainfield Municipal Building directly across from the new parking structure that is under construction.
This summer, construction also began for a multi-level downtown parking structure that includes 250 parking spaces and 8,100 square feet of commercial space.
