From the inside out, some say it's a launching pad that may help reinvent the city.
The Kroc Center opens its doors in just a few weeks – some already call it a landmark in South Bend, one they're hoping will turn the city around.
"When positive activity comes in the area, you have positive results," said Henry Davis Jr., councilman in South Bend.
The Kroc Center is in Davis’ district. He's already seen the place injecting an optimistic vibe in this near west side neighborhood and neighbors echo his feelings.
"A lot of people are actually coming together out here and I think they'll come together more when it opens up,” said Brandie Greene, who lives across from the Kroc Center.
Some say their families are counting the days until the grand opening.
"The little kids that stay upfront and across the street, they're in that parking lot all the time," said mother Rashiinell Young who lives nearby.
"It gives us here, people that are less fortunate an opportunity to have fun with our kids and experience a place like that," Greene said.
But even with a brand new building gracing Chapin Street there's some lingering skepticism.
"If they question the area I think the presence of the Kroc Center itself is going to be what makes that neighborhood different and special in South Bend," said Captain Phil Trent with the South Bend Police Department.
Major Bob Webster with the Kroc Center says the opportunities at people's fingertips will give many the push they need to improve their life.
"We can change a whole neighborhood, a whole community, and we can change the whole area," he said.
"I think it’s going to be a great impact, I really do," Young said.
With such a big building on Chapin Street, the Kroc center has about 50 cameras monitoring the facility at all times, they also have building directors overseeing operations and safety on a daily basis and they're just a few blocks away from the South Bend Police station.
The official grand opening is on January 28. Anyone can sign up for a membership at the Kroc Center, they also have daily tours as well.
