Gary, Indiana: Embracing Heritage and Innovation

Gary, Indiana is a city filled with rich history and vibrant culture, reinventing itself with each passing day. Known as the birthplace of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, Gary offers a distinct blend of nostalgia and forward-thinking that continues to attract residents and visitors alike. Through community-driven efforts, the city is experiencing a renaissance, showcasing its resilience and dedication to revitalization.

The art scene in Gary is on the rise, with local artists showcasing their work in galleries and public spaces, enhancing the city's visual appeal and creating a sense of pride among its citizens. The economic revitalization efforts are evident in the bustling small businesses making waves downtown. Entrepreneurs are greeted with open arms, and their creative ventures are at the heart of Gary's evolving identity.

Outdoor enthusiasts revel in the natural beauty of the Indiana Dunes National Park, just a short drive away. It offers a perfect escape for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the picturesque views of Lake Michigan. Meanwhile, the community's emphasis on education and local engagement helps foster a thriving environment for families to grow and flourish.

Gary, Indiana, is redefining itself as a beacon of innovation, art, and opportunity, proving that its story is one of triumph and unyielding spirit. Welcome to Gary, where the past inspires the future, and where its people are crafting a new chapter full of hope and promise.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Located just 25 miles southeast of downtown Chicago, Gary, Indiana is strategically positioned for industrial and logistics growth in the Midwest. The city sits at the crossroads of major transportation corridors, including I-80/94, I-65, and the Indiana Toll Road, providing direct access to regional and national markets. Gary/Chicago International Airport further enhances the city’s logistics appeal, offering cargo and freight capabilities that support industrial expansion.

Recent years have seen renewed investment interest in Gary, with industrial developers targeting redevelopment of former manufacturing sites and brownfields. Projects such as the Gary/Chicago Airport Industrial Park and the revitalization of the Lakefront District are attracting distribution, warehousing, and advanced manufacturing tenants. Vacancy rates for modern industrial space remain tight, and demand for build-to-suit opportunities is increasing.

Gary’s workforce is supported by regional training initiatives and partnerships with institutions such as Ivy Tech Community College. The city and Lake County offer workforce recruitment and customized training programs tailored to the needs of logistics, advanced manufacturing, and related sectors. State-level incentives, including EDGE tax credits and the Industrial Recovery Tax Credit, are available to qualifying businesses relocating or expanding in Gary.

Local economic development offices, such as the Gary Economic Development Corporation, provide site selection assistance, permitting support, and connections to regional infrastructure improvements. These coordinated efforts are positioning Gary as a competitive destination for industrial investment in Northwest Indiana.