Key Takeaways:
- Colfax Corner is a new 202,000-square-foot research and innovation hub led by Ancora in collaboration with the University of Notre Dame.
- The project will feature a restored South Bend Tribune building and an adjoining modern research and office facility, linked by an outdoor public plaza.
- The development is expected to bring over 400 high-tech jobs to downtown South Bend and have a $750 million direct impact on the local economy over the next 10 years.
- The project is a result of cross-sector collaboration among multiple partners, including the City of South Bend, the State of Indiana, Lilly Endowment Inc., and the Judd Leighton Foundation.
- The development is part of the DTSB Tech and Talent District and is expected to catalyze shared growth in the community.
Introduction to Colfax Corner
The City of South Bend’s Redevelopment Commission has pledged financial support for the development of Colfax Corner, a new research and innovation hub led by Ancora in collaboration with the University of Notre Dame. This project represents the first phase of the DTSB Tech and Talent District, which was envisioned by the Downtown 2045 Plan to serve as a catalyst for broader revitalization activities. The development will feature a restored South Bend Tribune building and an adjoining modern research and office facility, linked by an outdoor public plaza designed for events, pop-up programming, and everyday use.
Project Details and Timeline
The restored Tribune building and new research and office facility will be connected on the second floor, creating a unique and collaborative workspace. Vertical construction is anticipated to begin in summer 2026, with completion expected by summer 2028. The project is expected to bring over 400 high-tech jobs to downtown South Bend, engaging the community with an active calendar of programming and events. The development is projected to have a $750 million direct impact on the local economy over the next 10 years, making it a significant investment in the city’s future.
Partnership and Collaboration
Colfax Corner is the product of cross-sector collaboration among Notre Dame, Ancora, the City of South Bend, the State of Indiana, Lilly Endowment Inc., and the Judd Leighton Foundation. The announcement follows a $30 million grant from Lilly Endowment through its College and Community Collaboration program, aimed at fueling job creation, economic growth, and improved quality of life in Indiana’s college towns. The partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration and the potential for innovation and growth when different sectors work together towards a common goal.
Impact on the Community
The development is expected to have a significant impact on the community, catalyzing shared growth and advancing the region. As the anchor tenant, Notre Dame will work alongside Ancora to attract world-class research and talent, while also welcoming educational programs, events, and dining and retail experiences. The district will also host ethics and leadership training through Holy Cross College and youth and early childhood programming through South Bend City Church. The project will not only reshape the landscape of downtown South Bend but also create a vibrant and inclusive community that benefits everyone.
Future Plans and Expansion
Phase Two of the project will expand west across Lafayette Boulevard, further extending the district’s economic and cultural reach. The Tribune building, acquired by Notre Dame in 2023 to preserve it from demolition, will undergo full historic restoration to provide classroom, research, and innovation space. The new adjacent building will strengthen downtown South Bend as a hub for technological advancement and collaboration. With its innovative design and collaborative approach, Colfax Corner is poised to become a model for urban development and a catalyst for growth in the region.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, Colfax Corner is an exciting and innovative project that has the potential to transform the city of South Bend. With its unique design, collaborative approach, and significant investment, the development is expected to have a lasting impact on the community. To learn more about the project, visit www.colfaxcorner.com. As the project moves forward, it will be exciting to see the impact it has on the city and the region, and how it serves as a model for future urban development projects.
