Berglund Construction, in proud partnership with Powers & Sons Construction, has officially broken ground on the highly anticipated Tolleston Opportunity Campus in Gary, Indiana. This transformative project represents a major investment in the city’s future and will serve as a collaborative hub for community organizations, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana, Methodist Hospitals, the Crossroads YMCA, and the City of Gary.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held at the John Will Anderson Gary Club and brought together key community leaders and stakeholders. Among those in attendance were Gary Mayor Eddie Melton and U.S. Congressman Frank Mrvan, both of whom emphasized the far-reaching impact of the project.
“It is a beautiful day to come together as one community, with one purpose, and to build a brighter future for the city,” said Mayor Melton. “We’re not just breaking ground on a building—we’re breaking ground on hope, opportunity, and transformation.”
During the event, the Dean and Barbara White Family Foundation announced a $5 million challenge grant to support the project’s next phase—adding to their previous $10 million contribution. With this additional investment, the total project funding now exceeds $35 million, making it one of the most significant community developments in Northwest Indiana.
Construction activities are already underway, with the demolition of the previous structure nearly halfway complete. Berglund Construction and Powers & Sons, both family-owned firms with deep roots in the Gary area, are leading the development and construction of the campus.
“Being a part of the Tolleston Opportunity Campus project is more than just building a facility,” said Josh Schoon, Project Executive at Berglund Construction. “It's about building momentum for the entire community of Gary. We’re honored to partner with Powers & Sons Construction to help bring this vision to life.”
When complete, the Tolleston Opportunity Campus will offer a wide array of community resources, including:
- A full gymnasium
- Wellness and healthcare spaces
- Classrooms and learning labs
- A child development center
- Outdoor sports fields
- A teaching kitchen
Programming will focus on four pillars: youth development, health and wellness, economic empowerment, and family services. Activities will range from after-school programs and summer camps to job training, fitness classes, mental health support, and parenting workshops.
“This space is a collaboration that’s unlike anything else in Northwest Indiana,” said Jay Buckmaster, CEO of the Crossroads YMCA. “It’s a place where a child can swim, a parent can receive healthcare in their own neighborhood, and a family can rediscover connection, hope, and well-being. That doesn’t happen in many places—but it’s going to happen here.”
Congressman Mrvan acknowledged the role of federal support in helping to bring the project to fruition.
“When I was elected four years ago, we were in the middle of the pandemic and economic uncertainty,” said Mrvan. “We passed the American Rescue Plan, which provided direct funding to the City of Gary and the state of Indiana. That funding is being used right here in this facility. I’m grateful to witness this moment and to see what’s possible when all levels of government and the private sector come together for the future of Gary and Northwest Indiana.”
Mike Jessen, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana, reflected on the organization’s long history in Gary, dating back to 1954. He called the new campus a natural extension of their mission to empower and uplift the youth of the community.
Once complete, the Tolleston Opportunity Campus is expected to serve thousands of Gary residents annually, offering a safe, inclusive, and innovative space for learning, wellness, and connection. For Berglund Construction, the project represents not only a significant build but also a reaffirmation of the company’s commitment to community growth and transformation.
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