The mayor said the city is turning a corner with new jobs, a growing population and one of the lowest homicide rates in decades.
For generations, the story of Gary has been the factory closures, disinvestment and blight that have left deep scars across the city.
But Mayor Eddie Melton says a new chapter is unfolding.
"Nearly $3 billion in investment, over 2,000 jobs going to be slated in the next three to four years," Melton said.
Melton delivered his annual state of the city address, saying to an audience of residents, business leaders and public servants that there's momentum in the city.
He cited the recent contract with firefighters, ending a 23-year pause, and the pitch to be the next home of the Chicago Bears.
"Just engaging in that process has brought a lot of national and international light and economic opportunities," Melton said.
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Joslyn Kelly shares the excitement for Gary's potential.
The Gary native opened J's Breakfast Club. She's intentional in investing in her hometown.
"We're not victims; we're victors. And we have a lot of talent here. We have a lot of excitement here; we have a lot of joy here," Kelly said.
With Gary Schools no longer under the control of the state of Indiana, Superintendent Yvonne Stokes says the mayor is a great partner in making the district stronger.
"Your public schools help decide the direction of the city," Stokes said.
While Melton says some challenges remain, there's a sense of pride that's spreading throughout the city.
"We have all of the bones of a great city, and we are a great city," Melton said.
Soon, Gary will add a large FedEx facility, the Lake County Convention Center and new hotels to the landscape.