Greg Wade, principal landscape architect at Context Design, will be planning the exterior spaces for the soon-to-be built Arts & Innovation Hub at the Batesville Memorial Public Library (BMPL). But unlike other projects that Wade and his firm have completed, the Hub as it has become known, combines a wealth of experience with a very local touch.  

Wade said, “I grew up in Napoleon, attended North Decatur High School, and studied architecture at Purdue University. Batesville is now our home for my wife and five children. I have one child at Batesville Primary School, two at Batesville Intermediate School, and two at Batesville Middle School.   Although I’ve worked on other projects in our community, the Hub is a special project for me.”  

Prior and ongoing projects that Wade has designed include the new Margaret Mary Health Campus, Southeastern Indiana YMCA, and the Women’s Legacy project. He added that his time as chair of the Main Street Board has given him keen insight into what makes a healthy community.  

When asked what the Hub can mean for the city, Wade said, “We are fortunate to have a vibrant downtown, but one that can be improved. I see the Hub as a key event space, a place where people, businesses, and organizations can thrive, and most of all, make Batesville a walkable community. It’s not just about connecting addresses but carving a path which unites all the commercial and social aspects that make this area so special. Context Design is proud to be a part of the teams that will bring this project to life.” 

Groundbreaking on the Hub is expected to take place in early 2025.