The $3.5 million project is funded through the Lilly Endowment Grant
INDIANAPOLIS – Today, Indy Parks broke ground on a $3.5 million project at Washington Park. As part of the $80 million Lilly Endowment Grant announced at Washington Park in 2023, the project will replace the central playground, add a new splash pad, shelter, parking lot, and event lawn.
“The ongoing support of the Lilly Endowment means we can continue to make meaningful investments into our city’s parks,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “The project at Washington Park will transform one of our largest urban parks by giving our residents more opportunities and space to play, relax, and enjoy the beauty of nature.”
Washington Park stretches over 120 acres on the near east side and features extensive green space, trails, an 18-hole disk golf course, and a mountain bike course. The land that is now Washington Park was previously home to the Indianapolis Zoo for over two decades before moving to the current and larger location in downtown Indianapolis in the 1980’s.
“Between the historic investment in Frederick Douglass Park, renovated basketball courts at Fall Creek and 30th, and the transformative project at Washington Park, District 8 is witnessing a generational investment in our parks,” said City-County Councilor Ron Gibson. “Washington Park has always been a cornerstone of our city’s history—from its early days hosting the zoo to providing space for urban trails and basketball courts. This new project will ensure that it continues to serve our community for decades to come, enhancing the quality of life for residents and preserving the rich heritage of our beloved park.”
This project is one of several new park amenities across the city’s near northside and Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood including Rev. Charles R. Williams Park (September 2023), the new Frederick Douglass Park Family Center and playground (May 2024), and the newly renovated basketball courts at Fall Creek & 30th Park thanks to a partnership with Pacers Sports and Entertainment and Tyrese Haliburton (June 2024).
“As one of our largest urban parks, Washington Park offers residents a wide range of programs and activities,” said Indy Parks Director Phyllis Boyd. “Last year we announced the Lilly Endowment Grant here at Washington Park to build on those amenities, and today we begin the process of transforming this space for residents to enjoy for decades to come.”
Pictures from the event are available here.
