South Bend Cuts Ribbon on ‘The Hibberd’
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowOfficials in South Bend are celebrating the opening of a nearly $7 million redevelopment project in the city’s downtown. The Hibberd, a mixed-use development that includes residential, commercial, and retail space, is the culmination of an effort to transform the nearly century-old former Hibberd Printing Co. building.
Plans for the project were first announced two years ago. It was funded by more than $6 million in private investment and $480,000 from the South Bend Redevelopment Commission. Mark Neal, former deputy mayor in South Bend and a partner with South Bend-based commercial real estate firm Bradley Company, says the project preserves the community’s heritage and honors the earlier generations of civic and business leaders in the city.
"We’re also looking forward to the renewed growth of our downtown as a new, vibrant residential neighborhood," said Neal. "The Hibberd is in a unique location, connecting the current downtown to Four Winds Field and directly across the street from the St Joseph County Library’s main branch, which is also planning a major renovation and expansion. Whether you are an empty nester or a young professional, our unique offerings meet a variety of needs in an urban environment."
The first floor of The Hibberd is being occupied by Epoch Architecture + Planning, as well as Salon Nouveau salon and spa, with more retail and restaurant space available. The developers say efforts were made to preserve historic elements of the building, including the original terrazzo and concrete floors, oak office doors, and portions of the original boiler.
Residents in the 14 apartments included in the redevelopment will also have access to amenities such as an on-site fitness center, rooftop deck and bar area, an outdoor plaza with the city’s first bocce ball court, and adjacent parking.