Next Focus Of Circle City Forward Will Be Greenways, Trails

The next phase of the Circle City Forward initiative, focused on trails and greenways, is mapped out. The $25 million investment will create, plan and improve more than 50 miles of new trails, greenways and bike paths over the next three years.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the past year and a half has emphasized how crucial these connections are.

“They create a more unified Indianapolis, ripe for added development, they boost our home values, they provide a healthier cleaner alternative to cars,” Hogsett said.

The third phase of the initiative is included in the 2022 budget. A full council vote on the funding to begin construction will be held next week.

Nine projects are part of the investment.  The first in line for construction include Pogues Run and Pleasant Run trails east and south of downtown.

Funding will also be used for the planning and design of trails including Eagle Creek, Nickel Plate and Grassy Creek.

Indianapolis City-Councilor LaKeisha Jackson (D) said improvements at Grassy Creek create equity.

“Equity for opportunity for those who do not have transportation,” Jackson said, “equity for opportunity, equity to be connected to downtown.”

The Department of Public Works will seek additional federal and state funding to complete projects.

Funding for other parks projects included in the $190 million Circle City Forward initiative were approved by a council committee this week.

Contact WFYI city government and policy reporter Jill Sheridan at jsheridan@wfyi.org. Follow on Twitter: @JillASheridan.