Year wait expected for start of Wigwam work

The developer taking over Anderson's Wigwam gymnasium is expecting to start work at the complex in about a year.

Indianapolis-based BWI (Black and White Investments) and Pinebrook Properties took ownership this month of the 9,000-seat gym that's been closed since 2011. The group plans to convert part of the complex into 55 multifamily housing units while maintaining the gym.

BWI president Gary Hobbs told The Herald Bulletin that the company intends to spend at least $15 million on the project. BWI is seeking state tax credits to help finance the work, which Hobbs says will start next August or September.

The Anderson City Council last week approved a $100,000 contribution for the project. That came after business owner Ken Kocinski said he was worried about the lack of project deadlines.