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CITY OF SOUTH BEND REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING – March 12, 2026 <br /> <br />Page | 11 <br /> <br />and related site improvements to ensure a positive experience for both <br />performers and visitors. <br /> <br />The request before you today is for $250,000 in initial design funding. <br />The City is actively pursuing multiple grant and funding opportunities <br />through the State and local partners to support eventual construction. <br />Advancing the design now strengthens those grant applications and <br />allows for more accurate cost estimates by reducing current <br />uncertainties. If funding comes together as anticipated, construction <br />could begin as early as 2027. <br /> <br />President Warner asked about potential funding sources. Could this <br />project be supported by the hotel-motel tax? He also knows there have <br />been early discussions about expanding the sports development area. <br />Mr. Molnar responded, the hotel-motel tax is one potential funding <br />source the City is exploring. In addition, the City is planning to apply for a <br />READI Arts and Culture grant for this project. <br /> <br />President Warner noted that the bandshell was included in the original <br />2019 plan but was deferred at that time as a cost-saving measure. <br /> <br />Secretary Wax asked if we have a rough estimate of construction costs. <br />Additionally, beyond grants and other funding sources, will rentals or <br />event revenue cover the ongoing operational costs, or will this require <br />continued financial support? Mr. Molnar explained that, current <br />construction estimates are around $5 million, with the potential to <br />increase slightly once full design and related costs are included. <br />Questions related to operations and long-term costs would be best <br />addressed by VPA. I’m happy to connect you with their programming <br />team to discuss how the space would be operated and funded. The intent <br />is for the venue to be accessible to the community while also generating <br />some revenue through paid events. It is expected that existing VPA staff <br />and programming resources could support operations, as Howard Park <br />already has a strong and active programming structure. <br /> <br />Commissioner Wax responded that he appreciates that these types of <br />projects bring broader economic benefits to the city and downtown <br />businesses. That said, when making a significant investment that carries <br />ongoing operational costs, it’s important to ensure those costs are <br />clearly understood and planned for in advance. <br /> <br />Vice President Relos asked about the positioning of the bandshell and <br />Jitin Kain, Deputy Director of Public Works explained the bandshell is <br />proposed for the existing concrete stage area. Flooding typically occurs <br />in the lower grassy areas below the stage. As the design moves forward,