MISSION
Driven by the voice of residents, the WBRP leads impactful, collaborative efforts of neighbors and local stakeholders that honor our historical and cultural roots, build on the pride and strengths of our neighborhoods, and empower residents to be leaders and achieve a vision for a better community.
HISTORY
Our neighborhoods, Olde Towne and Gridley Allin Prickett (GAP), are long-established areas of Bloomington located directly west of downtown along Market Street. Our area is home to historic housing, long-standing churches, social service agencies, and small businesses. However, our community faces unique challenges and was identified as an area of concern and need of intervention in 2007.
A decision was made amongst public, private, and nonprofit sectors to take significant steps towards revitalizing West Bloomington neighborhoods. This included the formation of the West Bloomington Task Force – a group focused on creating a comprehensive plan to achieve significant community development. The West Bloomington Task Force was made up of representatives from the City of Bloomington, the Economic Development Council of the Bloomington-Normal Area, State Farm Bank, service area companies, non-profit organizations and social service agencies, and the GAP and Olde Towne neighborhood associations.
It was then that we made commitments to the West Bloomington Revitalization Project with intent to service as a model for change for other neighborhoods in the Bloomington-Normal area. Through our strategic planning, we were able to identify key themes in which we needed to focus our attention: economic development, safety, housing, youth, and education. These themes are highlighted in the various programs we offer today and we hope to continue evolving our efforts as we continue our mission.
What we strive for:
Residents of West Bloomington are empowered and engaged in the community.
Residents of West Bloomington enjoy a better quality of life.
Residents live in neighborhoods that are clean, green, and beautiful.
Residents feel safe and secure in their homes and neighborhoods.
Residents have housing options that are affordable, accessible, and energy efficient.
Youth have opportunities for education, recreation, and volunteer service.
Residents have the opportunity to own and maintain their own homes.
Residents have the opportunities for employment, independence, and self-sufficiency.
Residents have access to food security, transportation, and health care.
Residents celebrate the history, architecture, culture, and diversity of the community.
Residents have the opportunity to learn, serve others, and exert civic leadership.
