FRANKLIN, Ind. – The City of Franklin learned Friday that it had officially been awarded $750,000 through a READI grant for an active adult center.
Local leaders and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) announced the allocation of READI 2.0 funding to support the development of the new Franklin Active Adult Center in Johnson County, the region’s first investment through READI 2.0.
Gov. Eric J. Holcomb established the now $1.25 billion READI program in 2021, and it has since been nationally recognized for its success. READI 2.0, a part of the governor’s 2023 Next Level Agenda, allocates another $500 million to regions across the state to accelerate projects and programs that are expected to transform Indiana communities, attract talent, and improve quality of life for Hoosiers in the short and long term.
In Franklin, the $5.75 million Active Adult Center development (including a $750,000 READI 2.0 allocation) will rebuild the city’s existing senior center at Payne Park. The new building will not only expand and modernize the space to better serve the needs of Franklin’s senior population but also create a new community space for residents of all ages to meet and socialize.
The updated facility will support two new housing additions, a theater, an outdoor venue with a stage, a large event space, smaller spaces for various community groups to meet, and increased parking. The new building will provide a safe location for active adults and opportunities to attract residents for plays, music, weddings, and other activities.
The existing facility was demolished this summer, and construction is underway. The project should be complete by the end of August 2025.
Mayor Steve Barnett said, ‘We are thrilled to enhance our service to the senior population and the community with this new facility. It represents a significant commitment to improving quality of life and creating a vibrant environment that attracts and retains talent in a place where you can truly live, work, and play for a lifetime. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the IEDC for their support.
Learn more at IndianaREADI.com.
