The $12 million project includes a new Environmental Community Center and nature playground
INDIANAPOLIS – To highlight Earth Day, Mayor Joe Hogsett and Indy Parks announced the opening date for the new Grassy Creek Environmental Community Center and nature playground. Grassy Creek Park will become the city’s fourth Nature and Environmental Education focused park, joining park centers at Eagle Creek, Holliday, and Southeastway Parks. The new nature playground will be the largest in the Indy Parks system and features a variety of nature themed play features for children of all ages. This latest park project was funded through the city’s Circle City Forward Initiative and the Lilly Endowment Grant.
“Nothing better demonstrates the City’s commitment to the environment and the celebration of Earth Day than the historical investments going into our parks,” said Mayor Hogsett. “Thanks to funding from the City and our philanthropic partners, east side residents will soon get to enjoy the new nature park hub of Grassy Creek Environmental Community Center and the nature playground.”
The new Environmental Community Center and nature playground will open to the public on Tuesday May 20 with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The center’s hours are scheduled to be 10 am to 6 pm Monday-Friday and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturdays with the playground and park grounds open daily from dawn to dusk. The new section of the park is located at 3510 N German Church Road. It includes a trail connection to the park’s existing amenities to the south, located at 10510 E 30th St, and the wetland located to the west of the new center.
“What better way to celebrate Earth Day than with the announcement of the opening of a new Environmental Community Center and nature playground right here on the Far Eastside,” said Councilor Rena Allen, District 15. “This space represents a powerful investment in environmental education, sustainability, and community wellness. It’s a place where our youth can connect with nature, where families can learn and grow together, and where we honor our commitment to protecting our environment for future generations.”
The new community center includes several community rooms that will be used for programming and will also be available for rent. Residents are encouraged to visit the center on or after May 20 if they are interested in utilizing the center’s community rooms for events. Programming at the center will focus on environmental education. This includes a bird watching room with outdoor speakers and bird identification pictures. Images of the new center and nature playground can be found here.
“Access to nature boosts the quality of our lives,” said Indy Parks Director Phyllis Boyd. “These new assets at Grassy Creek Park will ensure that residents have another nature park for play and enjoyment.”
Indy Parks acquired 75 acres of additional land that was added to Grassy Creek Park in 2021, protecting additional greenspace on the city’s eastside. At over 240 acres, Grassy Creek is one of the city’s largest parks.
