Bloomington, Indiana – Bloomington’s Banneker Community Center has recently seen two major repair projects completed, marking another step in the city’s continuing effort to preserve and strengthen one of its important neighborhood spaces.
At 930 W. 7th St., the historic building remains a key place for local programs, gatherings, and youth activities, and city officials say the latest work reflects a larger commitment to keeping it safe, functional, and welcoming for the community it serves.
That commitment came into sharper focus after a 2025 existing conditions assessment by the Ball State University Center for Historic Preservation identified a serious threat to the building’s long-term preservation.
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According to the report, water infiltration had become a major concern, largely because the more than 8,400 square feet of roof did not have sufficient drains and downspouts. For a building with deep historical significance, the issue called for careful action rather than quick fixes.
In response, Banneker staff secured a $20,000 grant through the Indiana Landmarks Black Heritage Preservation Program. That funding helped support a contract with B&L Sheet Metal and Roofing for roof, gutter, and downspout repairs.
The roof work was completed in April at a total cost of $68,550, addressing one of the most pressing structural concerns facing the property.
A second project focused on the building’s main entrance, where the original historic limestone stairs had badly deteriorated over time.
Age, uneven wear, and damage from deicing salts had caused limestone erosion and mortar loss, making replacement necessary. In March, LRT Restoration Technologies of Monroe, Ohio, completed the demolition and reconstruction of the upper run of limestone steps and knee walls. In all, 12 limestone steps were replaced, along with 24 limestone blocks in the knee walls, with all new joints and stone properly coated and sealed.
“Supported by grant funding, these improvements reflect Parks and Recreation’s commitment to maintaining Banneker Community Center as a safe, welcoming, and well-used neighborhood space,” Parks and Recreation Director Tim Street said.
“We recognize the role Banneker plays as a place for community programs and events, and protecting its historic character and supporting the programs families and youth rely on is part of our strategy for ongoing community investment.”
The front steps project was partly funded by a $60,000 grant from the U.S. Department of the Interior’s National Park Service Historic Preservation Fund, administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology, along with $21,165 in matching funds from the Parks and Recreation Department. The city also credited Doug Bruce, President of Tabor Bruce Architecture and Design in Bloomington, for donating his expertise to the project at no cost.
More information about programs, rentals, and events at Banneker Community Center is available at bloomington.in.gov/banneker or by calling 812-349-3735.
