SHAWNEE LIFE
This project started as a single idea and now has manifested into a vision of collectives working together as one. Amongst the development in this area is a featured building called Lima Makerspace soon to be known as the Excite Lab (Education - eXperience - Creativity - Innovation - Technology - and Entrepreneurship).
The vision of the Excite Lab is to create an environment for people to explore the intersections between technology, art and culture. We desire to become one of many regional community resources that encourages local talent and gifts an expansive vision through collaborative works to push culture and commUNITY development. The Excite Lab is on pace for grand opening in Summer, 2024. You can follow an update on their social media page, Central District Lima, or join the mailing list at www.CentralDistrictLima.com.
The Excite Lab will be a one of a kind, flexible laboratory for local and regional participants to explore new skills, new products and new experiences. The world as we’ve known it has changed. You now have access to unlimited information within seconds. What we are lacking is safe spaces where these conDECEMBER 2022 • 15
Downtown Development
Located at the southeast corner of Lima’s urban core, The Central District stretches along South-Avenue from East Spring Street to East Elm Street. What was once a bustling collection of industrial buildings, crane yards and railroad loading points has been completely reconstructed into a modern blend of repurposed historic buildings and outdoor urban leisure space. A greenway pedestrian path, dog park and an enclosed courtyard have been designed into the voids between the industrial buildings for the residents, tenants and visitors to enjoy. This space offers individuals an enlightening walkable experience along with convenient parking, charging stations and curbside pick up.
cepts, ideas and thoughts can be cultivated, thus the birth of the Excite Lab. Not only will there be space to cultivate creativity but also spaces for training, education, team building, and events. The Excite Lab will be fully integrated with intentional grade levels from middle school to college. The programs offered will be functional throughout the school and summer year keeping students active and engaged throughout the community, as well as provide a pipeline to job training and placement for future employers. Excite Lab experiences will assist students to become more creative critical thinkers, innovative problem solvers, self-starters applying real-world applications and enhancing leadership development. These attributes will enable them to successfully transfer their skills and attributes to become effective employees and entrepreneurs.
