Setting the stage for Northwest Indiana's success

Today begins the first installment of this year's comprehensive look at Northwest Indiana. Consider NWI Now an annual checkup.

You'll see where the region is today and where it's headed. You'll read about how parks and their programs are improving despite strained finances. You'll learn about the Indiana Department of Transportation's plans for Northwest Indiana. You'll get Gov. Mitch Daniels' perspective on how the region is isolated from the rest of Indiana and what sets readers of The Times apart. You'll see where the business, industry and construction sectors are headed. And that's just for starters.

Next Sunday, you'll see special NWI Now reports on Lake County communities, followed March 4 by a focus on Porter County communities.

So sit back, relax and enjoy this comprehensive report on Northwest Indiana.