Indy Parks Project Funding
Thanks to funds provided by the American Rescue Plan Act, the Hogsett administration’s Circle City Forward initiative, and a generous grant from the Lilly Endowment, Indy Parks is seeing a historic level of investment to upgrade facilities and add new amenities.
Circle City Forward
In February 2021, Mayor Joe Hogsett announced a $45 million investment into Indy Parks facilities through the Circle City Forward initiative. The plan sets aside $20 million for Frederick Douglass Park’s new family center, $11 million for upgrades to Riverside Regional Park, and $7 million each for Grassy Greek Park and Krannert Park. Scroll down to see how that funding is being utilized.
American Rescue Plan Act
Announced by Mayor Joe Hogsett in October 2021, Indy Parks will use $16.7 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act to transform its playgrounds. 28 playgrounds in 26 parks have been selected as part of this project.
Learn more about the project here.
View American Rescue Plan Act Financial Reporting here.
Lilly Endowment Grant
In late 2022, the Lilly Endowment granted $80 million towards improvements across 42 parks in the Indy Parks system. The parks selected for funding were prioritized for upgrades based on community input, an equity lens, and likely impact due to usage rates. The equity lens was informed by a recent assessment of park amenity conditions and a vulnerability index determined by census blocks associated with a particular park. The community engagement, project design, and construction schedule will run through 2025. The total grant award represents 14 times the annual Parks capital budget.
View a map of all parks receiving Lilly Endowment funds here.
Below are some current and upcoming park projects.
Recently Completed Projects
Frank and Judy O’Bannon Park Playground and Splash Pad
- Completed in May 2023
- New playground, picnic shelter and splash pad
- Completed October 2023
- New trail through Riverside Regional from 16th Street to 30th Street with gathering points that have seating and showcasing local history and art.
Charles Williams Park
- Completed September 2023
- New playground, horseshoe pits, picnic areas and a performance shelter
Krannert Park
- Completed January 2024
- Renovated center and expanded pool facilities
Frederick Douglass Park Family Center
- Completed in May 2024
- New center with large gymnasium, exercise track, performance stage, numerous community rooms, podcast studio, and signature outdoor playground
Projects in Progress
Wes Montgomery Park Basketball Shelter
- Anticipated Completion Summer 2024
- New outdoor basketball courts with a roof structure over the top of the courts
Grassy Creek Regional Park Nature Center
- Anticipated Completion Fall 2024
- New environmental and community center with signature playground and walking paths
Playground Renovations (American Rescue Plan)
- Began fall 2023, Anticipated Completion Fall 2024
- 28 playground renovations within 26 parks with new equipment, updated surfacing, and amenities
Riverside Adventure Park
- Anticipated Completion December 2024
- New playground, two large pavilions, trails, comfort station, and landscaping
World Sports Park Improvements
- Anticipated Completion November 2024
- New concession pavilion, restrooms, parking lot and driveway improvements
