In her State of the City Address, Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry emphasized the city’s growing momentum and outlined how her administration is building a stronger, more inclusive community. The Mayor’s top priorities include housing, public safety, infrastructure, education, and quality-of-life investments in neighborhoods and parks.
Housing remains a top priority for Mayor Terry. She announced that Evansville had surpassed her administration’s goal of 350 new affordable housing units by this year, with an additional 240 in the pipeline. Her latest goal of 2,000 units by the end of her term reaffirms her commitment to addressing the housing crisis. To support neighborhood revitalization, the city tripled its demolition budget and launched the Fight Blight initiative, resulting in over 90 dangerous properties already slated for removal in 2025. She also highlighted the Block-by-Block program and the Forward Together grant initiative, which supports nonprofits in revitalizing neighborhoods and reducing poverty.
Mayor Terry highlighted record recruitment numbers following new contracts that increased compensation for police and firefighters. She shared that the Evansville Fire Department will take over citywide EMS operations beginning in summer 2026, which is expected to improve efficiency and generate $3.5 million annually by 2028. This shift will free up funds for other core services, including roads, parks, and housing. The city also continues to reduce crime through community-focused programs like the Community Violence Intervention initiative and a new Youth Advisory Council to give young people a direct voice in shaping public safety solutions.
Evansville is also investing heavily in quality-of-life improvements in public spaces and infrastructure. The city’s $24 million Parks Bond will fund restoration and improvement projects across multiple parks, including upgrading and fixing HVAC and irrigation systems, as well as installing new splash pads, playgrounds, and activity zones in places like Tepe and Garvin Parks. Mayor Terry also announced that Evansville Water and Sewer Utility is entering discussions with regulators to implement an innovative groundwater blending strategy that will strengthen water security, reduce PFAS treatment costs, and save the city an estimated $100 million upfront, delivering long-term sustainability and ratepayer relief.
Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.
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