Introduction

Several reports were written by the students of the third year Economic Development Studio at Ball State University. These reports detail several studies and their calculations, which were performed based on the upcoming development of the Mystery District in downtown Muncie. One report focused on the potential need for a grocery store, another on the possibility of putting in a drug store, and two others studied a broader range and attempted to determine possible retail options that are needed and supportable in the downtown area. These and other issues will be addressed in the summary of each individual report.

Site Analysis

The Mystery District is an area of approximately eight blocks with commercial and residential uses. The surrounding areas are made up of similar land uses. The Mystery District itself, as well as the surrounding neighborhoods and downtown, includes some historic architecture and culture. The neighborhoods nearest the Mystery District all have incomes lower than Muncie's median. The District also contains many rundown buildings and sidewalks that need repair in order to make the area a more desirable place for business.

Several physical barriers also exist between the Mystery District and the surrounding neighborhoods. Madison Street, on the east side of the District, is a four-lane street which detracts from the potential for pedestrian traffic between the areas. The railroad tracks located on the southern end of the site are also a physical barrier. They cause problems not only for pedestrians, but also for automobile traffic when trains are passing through. The trains themselves can also cause a noise problem in the downtown area.

Highlights & Summaries

1. Buying Power
   Buying power is money available for spending on goods and services. Low income neighborhoods, because of their high density, possess a remarkably high buying power.
2. Grocery Store Study
   A study was conducted to determine the feasibility of providing the Mystery District with a grocery store. It was concluded that this type of service could be supported.
3. Drug Store Study
   A study was conducted to determine the feasibility of providing the Mystery District with a drug store. It was concluded that this type of service could be supported.
4. Retail Market Studies
   Two studies were conducted to determine various types of goods and services that could be supported if located in the Mystery District. It was concluded in the first study that a grocery store and a furniture store are in the highest demand and could be supported. The second study concluded that various specialty shops would be appropriate for the area.