The Village : a plan for identity, diversity, and the future : [an honors thesis] (HONRS 499)

Abstract

The Village is an eight-block area adjacent to the south end of the Ball State University campus. For years it has been the focus of both positive and negative attention. Students have often claimed that The Village in comparison to other university "villages" does not stack up. The landlords and business owners have their fair share of complaints to offer regarding The Village as well. On the other hand, businesses in the area are often very crowded and it seems that on weekends The Village is the place to be. Existing plans regarding the future of The Village address some of these issues but have failed to recognize the chief aspect that makes The Village a unique destination. This aspect is its identity, or rather multiple identities. Throughout the day The Village caters to different groups: students, faculty, and Muncie residents, creating multiple identities. The document and presentation boards that were created offer a new plan for The Village, based on the concept of multiple identities.