Indianapolis Parks Department Unveils 10-Year Master Plan

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Parks and Recreation Department announced a comprehensive 10-year master plan Tuesday that will guide nearly $200 million in investments across the city's 212 parks and green spaces, with major improvements planned for underserved neighborhoods on the east and west sides.

The plan, developed over 18 months with input from more than 3,000 residents through community meetings and online surveys, prioritizes equity and accessibility while addressing aging infrastructure throughout the park system.

Major Projects on the Horizon

Key initiatives include a $15 million renovation of Riverside Park on the near west side, featuring new playground equipment, updated basketball courts, and improved lighting along the White River trail connections. The plan also calls for establishing three new neighborhood parks in areas currently underserved, including locations in the Martindale-Brightwood and Far Eastside neighborhoods.

"We've heard loud and clear from residents that they want safe, accessible parks within walking distance of their homes," said Parks Director Maria Gonzalez-Thompson. "This master plan ensures that every Indianapolis family, regardless of zip code, will have quality recreational opportunities in their neighborhood."

The Crown Hill area will see significant improvements to Marott Park, including new soccer fields and a modernized community center. Meanwhile, Garfield Park on the south side is slated for trail expansions and enhanced programming spaces.

Addressing Infrastructure Needs

Beyond new amenities, the plan tackles critical maintenance backlogs affecting parks citywide. Aging playground equipment at 47 locations will be replaced with modern, ADA-compliant structures. The department will also invest $25 million in trail resurfacing and expansion, adding 15 miles of new pathways to connect existing greenways.

Broad Ripple Park and Eagle Creek Park will receive infrastructure upgrades including improved parking, restroom facilities, and storm water management systems designed to handle increased rainfall from climate change.

Community Partnership Focus

"Parks are the heart of healthy communities, and this plan recognizes that," said Jennifer Martinez, president of the Near Eastside Community Organization. "The commitment to programming and partnerships means these improvements will truly serve residents' needs, not just look good on paper."

The plan emphasizes collaboration with neighborhood groups, schools, and nonprofits to expand programming. New partnerships will bring job training programs, youth sports leagues, and senior services directly to park locations in Haughville, Fountain Square, and other neighborhoods.

Funding and Timeline

Funding will come from a combination of city budget allocations, federal grants, and private partnerships. The first phase, beginning in spring 2024, focuses on safety improvements and basic infrastructure repairs across all parks.

Mayor Joe Hogsett's office indicated support for the ambitious timeline, noting that parks investments consistently rank among residents' top priorities in annual city surveys.

Public comment on the master plan continues through February 15, with final approval expected from the Metropolitan Development Commission in March. Detailed project timelines and funding breakdowns are available at indy.gov/parks.