Hello, friends! As someone passionate about community growth, economic development, and the vibrant future of our region, I couldn’t wait to share this thrilling announcement from South Bend and Notre Dame. On December 18, 2025, the City of South Bend, investment firm Ancora, and the University of Notre Dame officially launched the Colfax Corner project—a game-changing initiative that’s set to transform downtown South Bend into a bustling innovation hub.

This 202,000-square-foot research and innovation center is the first phase of the DTSB Tech and Talent District, part of the broader Downtown 2045 Plan to revitalize the heart of our city. The project beautifully blends preservation with progress: It includes the complete historic restoration of the former South Bend Tribune building (which Notre Dame acquired in 2023 to save from demolition) connected to a sleek, modern research and office facility. The two buildings will frame a welcoming outdoor public plaza perfect for events, pop-up programming, and everyday community gatherings.

What makes Colfax Corner truly special is the powerhouse collaboration behind it. Partners include the City of South Bend (providing financial support through an Innovation Development District bond), Ancora (leading development and management), Notre Dame (as the anchor tenant), the State of Indiana, Lilly Endowment Inc. (with a generous $30 million grant), and the Judd Leighton Foundation. It’s a perfect example of public, private, and nonprofit sectors teaming up for the greater good.

The impact? Massive. We’re talking over 400 high-tech jobs coming downtown, a projected $750 million direct economic boost over the next 10 years, and a renewed energy that will attract world-class talent and research. Beyond jobs, the space will host ethics and leadership training from Holy Cross College, youth programming from South Bend City Church, educational events, dining, and retail—making it a steadfast community anchor.

Vertical construction kicks off in summer 2026, with completion targeted for summer 2028. There’s even a Phase Two planned to expand across Lafayette Boulevard!

Here are some inspiring words from the leaders involved:

• Josh Parker, Chairman and CEO of Ancora: “This project shows what’s possible when a university, private partners, and a city pull in the same direction — innovation speeds up, talent sticks, and opportunity widens for South Bend.”
• Shannon Cullinan, Executive Vice President of Notre Dame: “We are grateful for the support Colfax Corner has received from our public and nonprofit partners. Together with other new developments in downtown South Bend, we look forward to the positive impact this project will have on advancing our region.”
• James Mueller, Mayor of South Bend: “We are proud to partner with Ancora and the University of Notre Dame on this transformative investment in the heart of South Bend. This game-changing project will not only reshape the landscape of our downtown, but also catalyze shared growth in our community.”

I’m so excited to see how Colfax Corner will breathe new life into South Bend, fostering innovation while honoring our history. This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking project that makes our area a great place to live, work, and grow.

For more details, check out the official project site at colfaxcorner.com or the original announcement from Notre Dame News.