Blake Shelton bringing live entertainment venue to downtown Indianapolis

Driving the news: The Herb Simon-controlled Boxcar Development and Opry Entertainment Group are partnering on the 37,000-square-foot entertainment venue, set for completion at 231-235 S. Meridian St. by late 2027.

• Named for Shelton's 2001 single, Ole Red will feature a dining area, an indoor bar, two stages and a covered rooftop bar overlooking downtown.

Zoom in: Shelton — who discussed the development during a Wednesday morning fireside chat with Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO Mel Raines and others — said Indianapolis has been home to some of the biggest moments of his career.

• That includes the first public performance of his debut hit "Austin" at a country music expo 26 years ago; singing "America the Beautiful" with ex-wife Miranda Lambert before Super Bowl XLVI; and serving as grand marshal of the 106th Indianapolis 500.

What he's saying: "It's so exciting to come to Indianapolis because I know the support that's going to be here, and because I know that country music fans are all over the place in Indiana," he said.

What's next: Previously home to Tiki Bob's, Bad Axe Throwing, the Meridian Room and other businesses, the buildings that will house Ole Red are set for renovation this summer.

• Raines said the venue should be open in time for Indianapolis to host the 2028 NCAA Women's Final Four.