BUSINESS PARTNERS INVEST TO CREATE NORTHSIDE APARTMENTS IN DOWNTOWN COLUMBIA CITY

COLUMBIA CITY, Ind. (January 2, 2020) –Northside Apartments, Columbia City’s newest housing initiative, are available for rent.

The four units above a storefront at 116 W Van Buren St. feature newly constructed apartments with two-story design in the heart of downtown Columbia City with views of the courthouse square.

The building was purchased by Columbia City Investments, LLC., a joint venture between Jerry and Shylla Busche and Matt and Lori Shipman. Construction began a year and a half ago in the old Northside Grill building to create a revitalized space for residents and to improve the building on the courthouse square.

“To have a vibrant and healthy downtown, it takes a mix of cultures and incomes,” said Matt Shipman, a partner in Columbia City Investments. “These apartments were built to attract professionals with disposable income to spend in the local economy and downtown.”

The building houses two one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments. Each apartment is equipped with appliances, including a washer and dryer.

“We have two of the apartments rented already and there has been talk of some corporate rental agreements,” said Shylla Busche. “It’s a great location and great use of the space.”

The building was constructed in 1870, and has been a variety of businesses before Columbia City Investment, LLC., purchased the building. Prior to the purchase, a semi-tractor ran into the backside of the building causing the building to start collapsing and had a repair order from the City of Columbia City.

“The repair order had to be done first to fix the collapsing wall,” Shipman said. “We’re proud of the progress and the ability to save the building. The unique two-story design is something different that doesn’t exist in most places and we’re proud to bring these apartments to Columbia City.”

The apartments were created from a vision from a Fort Wayne architecture and then constructed and finished within the last month.

“It’s proof that great things can happen in older spaces to bring life back into downtowns,” Lori Shipman said. “Shylla did such a great job with the interior decorating and making these places home.”

There are several housing projects happening throughout the county and Whitley County Economic Development is proud of the investments made to create a greater quality of life and provide economic opportunities for the communities.

The two single-room apartments are still available for rent at $900 a month. If you’re interested in renting the apartment, please contact Shylla Busche at smiller@impactcnc.net.