Northwest Indiana Embraces a Confident Future

Regional Development Authority outlines ambitious plans to build on recent progress and leverage key assets.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:00pm

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A high-end studio still life photograph featuring a miniature model of a modern commuter train, a small architectural model of a lakefront park pavilion, and a few polished metal tools or instruments, all arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background using dramatic lighting to symbolize the region's strategic investments.Northwest Indiana's strategic investments in transportation, public spaces, and economic development are positioning the region for a confident, forward-looking future.Gary Today

Sherri Ziller, President and CEO of the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority, reflects on the region's growing confidence and outlines a comprehensive strategic plan to further transform the area. From revitalizing the Lake Michigan shoreline to expanding commuter rail and redeveloping blighted neighborhoods, the RDA is spearheading a wide range of initiatives aimed at enhancing quality of life and economic opportunities across Lake and Porter counties.

Why it matters

Northwest Indiana has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with the RDA playing a central role in reviving the region's lakefront, upgrading its commuter rail system, and tackling blight. This renewed sense of confidence and capability positions the area to capitalize on new development opportunities, attract residents and businesses, and solidify its identity as a vibrant, forward-looking community.

The details

The RDA's updated strategic plan focuses on leveraging the region's natural assets, improving infrastructure, and spurring economic growth. Key initiatives include establishing a scenic byway along Route 12, enhancing access and connectivity to the Indiana Dunes National Park, remediating and redeveloping industrial sites, and building a new Gary Metro South Shore station. The plan also calls for incentives to spur residential and commercial development in Transit Development Districts, further expansions of the South Shore commuter rail, and accelerated brownfield remediation programs.

  • The RDA has been working on updating its comprehensive strategic plan for the better part of two years.
  • The last update was done in 2016 for the South Shore rail projects, which are now nearing completion.
  • The State of Indiana has made $75 million in matching funds available to build the new Gary Metro South Shore station.

The players

Sherri Ziller

President and CEO of the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority.

Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority

A regional organization that has played a central role in revitalizing the Lake Michigan shoreline, upgrading the South Shore commuter rail system, and spearheading various economic development initiatives across Lake and Porter counties.

State of Indiana

Provided $75 million in matching funds to support the construction of the new Gary Metro South Shore station.

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What they’re saying

“Now, building a better Northwest Indiana is just what we do.”

— Sherri Ziller, President and CEO, Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority

What’s next

The RDA is currently working with the City of Gary and the State of Indiana to secure funding and begin construction on the new Gary Metro South Shore station, a key component of the region's updated strategic plan.

The takeaway

Northwest Indiana has transformed itself in recent years, building confidence and capability to tackle ambitious projects that enhance quality of life, attract new residents and businesses, and solidify the region's identity as a vibrant, forward-looking community.