Former Blind School Project moves forward

December 12th, 2008 by

If the residents of Gary, SD  had succumbed to the psychological effects often associated with “Broken Window Theory“, I doubt anyone would have showed up for the Dessert and Design meeting at the former South Dakota School for the Blind in Gary last night. 

But signs of helplessness and community despair were far from present as approximately 140 Gary residents gathered to hear about future plans for former School for the Blind campus.  Quite a turnout for a community with a population of 250.

The community meeting, which was held in the south dormitory auditorium, began with a presentation by Joe Kolbach, who recently acquired the property.  He shared his aggressive vision for restoring the buildings and filling them with productive uses.   He and Briana Hoffman, Deuel County economic development coordinator, then asked the community for their input into future activities that could tie into the facility.  The community eagerly shared their ideas, and it was wonderful to see the entire auditorium filled with energy and excitement.

Joe has identified office space, lodging, and an auditorium/events center as purposes for two of the campus’ three main buildings.  Plans are still pending (hence the need for ideas) for the former administrative building. (check out Joe’s presentation here) 

Restoration of the buildings and reestablishment of Lake Elsie will undoubtedly enhance Gary’s existing charm and make it a unique and special community in the upper Great Plains.  But work of this nature in a rural community doesn’t get done based solely on one person’s vision and commitment.  To be truly successful, it takes the support of the entire community.

And that was the message offered by Randy Parry, who spoke briefly during the meeting.  Parry, the President of the Rural Learning Center in Howard, recounted how easy it is for negativity and skepticism to cripple community development efforts.  It’s easy to feel bursts of excitement now, but the community will undoubtedly experience barriers that it will have to fight through.  That’s when support becomes vital. 

As I reflect back on the meeting, it’s that message that I hope struck home with attendees.  The campus’ redevelopment is an amazing opportunity for Gary.  But its greatest impact will only be reached by the community working together to determine how to take full advantage of and build upon this incredible opportunity.   

 

 Other links about the School for the Blind project:

 Update: Briana Hoffman asked me to make one correction.  While 140 people attended the meeting, not all were Gary residents.  Attendees came from throughout Deuel County, as well as neighboring Canby, MN.  It’s great to see regional interest.

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