The future of Gary begins with its people, its community.

Andre Turner comes from a multigenerational steel family and has spent 26 years in the mill, where the work has provided security and shaped his life in Gary. 

He sees change as both necessary and complicated. Cleaner, modernized mills could improve air quality and health, but he worries that increased automation could also mean fewer good-paying jobs. 

Beyond the mill, Andre sees Gary changing as outside investment raises home values and attracts new residents, while also creating concerns about affordability for longtime families. Still, he believes Gary has tremendous potential. “The future of Gary begins with its people, its community,” he says today.

Photos: Tyrell Anderson / Decay Devils