In the 1980s, Dave Copenhaver had big dreams of revitalizing downtown. He began Heritage in Progress to save the Murphey Building, the oldest building in Henry County. When Dave Nantz and Jeff Ray shared their dream of continuing the revitalization effort using the Main Street framework, Carrie Barrett knew she wanted to get involved.
This framework’s vision inspired Carrie to help breathe life back into this district that held tremendous nostalgia and potential. Working alongside community leaders and the Historic Preservation Commission, Barrett helped establish the organization and build on the work started by many advocates before her.
Carrie Barrett is now finishing her stint as the Executive Director at New Castle Main Street, but the pursuit of downtown New Castle’s revitalization isn’t over. Barrett will be passing the baton to Emily Hurst, has served as Main Street’s Project Manager and took on the Executive Director role October 1.
“It’s been an absolute joy to work alongside our community leaders to envision and implement plans for New Castle’s downtown district,” Barrett expressed. “Our building owners, business owners and residents are amazing, and our downtown is only going to get better and stronger!”
Barrett served as a volunteer for New Castle Main Street for eight years before the board of directors named her as executive director in 2022. Emily Hurst joined the Main Street staff in 2022, and the pair led the charge to land the $2 million PreservINg Indiana grant.
During her term as Executive Director, Carrie welcomed events like Fourth Fridays to the downtown district. She helped to host strategic events like Tour, Pour, Restore, which led to the purchase of six buildings downtown; and New Castle On Tap, which inspired Blue River Taphouse and Ink & Ale Brewhouse to open downtown.
She spearheaded the implementation of the Vandewalle plan which included developing the community space at the 1400 plaza. This space now hosts the Henry County Farmers Market and multiple other events. These beautification efforts also included campaigns to maintain flowerpots and light post banners downtown.
Barrett’s relentless efforts to convene community leaders around revitalization led to the Building Renovation Assistance Program (BRAP). BRAP led to a total of $2.6 million dollars in private investment in downtown buildings. She plans to continue to be involved in the BRAP program and assist voluntarily with the implementation of the PreservINg grant.
“Carrie’s extraordinary efforts and commitment over the last 10+ years has led to the tremendous growth and revitalization of our New Castle Downtown,” noted Duke Hamm, New Castle Main Street’s Board President. “She has led the Building Era for 10 years and is now handing off the baton to Emily Hurst to lead the New Castle Main Street Era!”
When businesses and individuals need to connect with New Castle Main Street, they should reach out to Emily Hurst at director@newcastledowntown.com. Hurst plans to be in the office from 9 am to 2 pm but encourages people to make an appointment to ensure she is available. There are also several committees within New Castle Main Street that regularly welcome volunteer support.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to be leading this incredible, foundational organization,” shared incoming director, Emily Hurst. “The people have spoken, declaring that preserving our history and boosting downtown development are crucial for future generations. I’m exceedingly grateful to Carrie and the others who have spoken loudest to get us to where we are now. The continued support from the community will play a vital role in safeguarding the history that helps keep our vibrant downtown alive.”
Those who want to support the efforts to revitalize downtown New Castle can participate in the Main Street Matters Match Initiative; From now through November 30, all funds up to $11,000 will be matched. Every dollar raised will help continue New Castle Main Street’s momentum. Learn more about New Castle Main Street by visiting NewCastleDowntown.com and following New Castle Main Street on Facebook and Instagram.
Click here to watch Carrie pass the baton to Emily on YouTube!
