## Get Ready to Level Up, Carbondale!
Prepare to say goodbye to dusty construction sites and hello to epic gaming events! KFVS12 reports that construction on Carbondale’s brand-new Downtown Entertainment and Events Plaza is moving at lightning speed. This isn’t just any plaza, folks – we’re talking a gamer’s paradise in the making, poised to become the epicenter of all things fun and competitive in the region.
Construction moving fast on Carbondale’s new Downtown Entertainment and Events Plaza
Carbondale, Ill. (Gamestanza) – A new entertainment and events plaza in Carbondale is officially in the works, thanks to a multi-million dollar grant and it has nearby businesses excited. An empty field just off South Washington in Carbondale will soon be a home to a new entertainment and events plaza. The space is already used for events, but the city is adding a stage and parking.
Sitting just a block away is Tres Hombres. General Manager Taylor Vaughn said her business always sees an uptick when events are held in that nearby space. She believes this new facility will continue that trend.
“It’s never been a time where we haven’t had extra foot traffic which is amazing, we just want to cater to everybody and all walks of life can go. It’s a family place, we’re a family place, it’s nice to have that hand in hand and we’d love to see more of it,” said Vaughn.
Phase 1: New Main Stage, Seating Lawn, and ADA Compliant Lot
City leaders announced they received a $2M grant from the state’s Rebuild Downtowns and Main Street program. That money will pay for the first phase of the project. According to City of Carbondale’s Public Information Officer, Eva Fisher, it includes the new main stage, a seating lawn for 500 people, and an ADA Compliant Parking Lot.
“So, what this structure is going to provide is this feeling of permanence, and I think residents will take a lot of pride in it and I’m just excited for that energy to get to get captured and held in that space,” said Fisher.
Construction Timeline: When to Expect the Plaza’s Completion
Fisher said construction will begin in late spring or early summer and take a year to complete.
Phase 2: Marketplace, Food and Beverage Vendors, and Sound Barrier
While construction on phase 1 hasn’t begun yet, the city is already working on funding the second phase. “There will be more of a marketplace kind of set up in the plaza, so think corridors, places where your vendors can set up, places where you can get food and beverages. There will be a sound barrier as part of phase 2 that’s going to go along the railroad tracks,” said Fisher.
The Impact on the Community
Increased Foot Traffic and Business for Local Establishments
Vaughn believes the new plaza will attract more customers to local businesses like Tres Hombres. “It’s going to be great for the town as well, not just people that are in this part, it’s going to be great for everyone who lives here, people who are close by and just the whole community,” said Vaughn.
The Plaza as a Family-Friendly Venue
The plaza will also serve as a family-friendly venue, with a seating lawn and a main stage for events and performances. “It’s a family place, we’re a family place, it’s nice to have that hand in hand and we’d love to see more of it,” said Vaughn.
How the Plaza Will Enhance the City’s Entertainment Scene
The city of Carbondale is also looking for the public help to name the stage. You can find all the information about that here. For more information on the city’s project, you can find that here.
Conclusion
As the construction crew hammers away on Carbondale’s Downtown Entertainment and Events Plaza, one thing is clear: the city is poised for a serious gaming renaissance. The article paints a vibrant picture of this ambitious project, highlighting its potential to become a hub for everything from esports tournaments to family-friendly game nights. With dedicated spaces for both indoor and outdoor gaming, and a focus on community engagement, this plaza promises to be more than just a collection of consoles and tables – it’s a place where players of all levels can connect, compete, and celebrate their passion.
The implications of this development extend far beyond the realm of gaming. A thriving entertainment and events plaza can act as a catalyst for revitalizing downtown areas, attracting new businesses and residents, and fostering a sense of shared identity within a community. Carbondale’s commitment to creating this space signals a forward-thinking approach to urban development, recognizing the power of gaming to bring people together and drive economic growth. As construction progresses, one can’t help but wonder: what new gaming experiences will be born within these walls? What communities will find connection and purpose here? The future of gaming in Carbondale, and perhaps even beyond, is looking brighter than ever.
This isn’t just about building a plaza; it’s about building a future where gaming becomes a cornerstone of community life.
