Demolition Marks New Beginning for Downtown Gary

On a cloudy Friday afternoon, the Genesis Convention Center in downtown Gary began its transformation into a heap of twisted steel, glass, and debris. Demolition equipment worked steadily, dismantling what was once seen as a potential hub for economic progress. A five-person crew from McDonough Demolition oversaw the operation, as backhoes tore into the building’s west side, the turmoil echoing along Adams Street.

Inside the Genesis Convention Center, excavators ripped out bleachers, marking the start of its demolition on October 16, 2026. Nearby, patrons of the Gary Public Library continued their activities, unaffected by the unfolding scene at the convention center, which had long failed to revive the downtown area as hoped. Originally opened in 1981, the center hosted major events, including concerts by Whitney Houston and Prince. However, it soon became a financial burden on city resources.

In past years, two former directors of the Genesis Center were found guilty of embezzlement, leading to federal charges. Deborah Black was ordered to repay $16,000, while Victoria Wilson agreed to return $12,000. The center closed its doors in 2020, and vandals subsequently targeted it, stripping away valuable materials. Its final major event occurred in 2019, serving as the venue for the funeral of five-term mayor Richard G. Hatcher, whose administration had established the Genesis Center.

By 2025, the city had installed a $9,000 camera security system for the center. But the rising costs prompted Gary Mayor Eddie Melton to announce in April that the 45-year-old facility, along with its parking garage, would be demolished. The city reported that the center had sustained “deep deficits for years,” costing taxpayers $8 million in operational shortfalls over five years. Powers and Sons Construction, based in Gary, estimated that repair and stabilization expenses would exceed $10 million.

As part of its efforts to address urban decline, the city is also planning to demolish the former Gordon’s Department Store complex, City Methodist Church, and St. Mary’s Mercy Hospital. “Holding onto unsalvageable buildings has cost our taxpayers millions,” Mayor Melton emphasized, noting that demolition is essential for progress. While no specific date is set for the church’s demolition, officials expect the process to begin by late October or early November, aiming for complete demolition and site restoration by August 24, 2027.

The city’s efforts to rejuvenate its economy include collaboration with the University of Notre Dame School of Architecture on a redevelopment program. Future plans envision a new public safety facility, mixed-use housing, commercial development, a new metro center, and a central civic plaza. On 5th Avenue and Broadway, the city plans to create 150 residential units, ground-floor retail space, a mini-grocer, and dining options, with 90 additional units at 504 Broadway. The plaza will link the Lake County Courthouse to the Hudson-Campbell Sports and Fitness Center, honoring the cultural legacy of the Genesis Center site.

Jim Masters is a freelance journalist who contributes to the Post-Tribune.