The Columbus Redevelopment Commission is set to consider a request for one-million dollars to help refurbish and update the former offices of “The Republic.” The building, across the streets from city hall and the Bartholomew County Courthouse, will house Indiana University’s School of Art, Architecture and Design’s J. Irwin Miller Master of Architecture program. Total renovations are expected to cost $2 million, with half of that amount coming from other area partners.

Mayor Jim Lienhoop says that IU is spending millions of dollars locally to establish the program. He adds that it’s important for the community to become a partner in projects like this, whenever possible, to show those who are investing in Columbus that those investments are not a one-way street.

Heather Pope, the city’s redevelopment director, says this funding request is above what the commission can spend without city council approval. If approval is received Monday, the request will go to city council for consideration at its meeting on June 5th.