Redevelopment Plans Underway For Far Eastside Property

The planning process for a  long troubled, 19-acre property on the Far Eastside of Indianapolis is underway.

For years, bad acting landlords of the former Oaktree Apartments wouldn’t make property improvements leading to unsafe housing and added to crime in the area. After the health department stepped in, the city was finally able to purchase the property and demolish the buildings.

A new contract has been awarded to Meticulous Design + Architecture for the master planning process. 

Democratic city-county councilor LaKeisha Jackson said the move to revitalize the long neglected area near 42nd Street and Post Road, will start by consulting with the community.

“What do you want for the future of this corner?” Jackson said. “For the future for the Far Eastside, or to tear down the stigma that has stigmatized this corner on the Far Eastside.”

Jackson said Meticulous, a Black-owned business, was chosen in part because of its focus on community involvement.

“So many times we’ve heard residents say we have people come in and tell us what they’re going to do, who don’t look at it like us, who don’t live in our area,” Jackson said.

Jackson said she hopes the redevelopment serves as a legacy project.  Ideas could include multi-use efforts, greenspace, food access and housing.

A series of public meetings and planning sessions will be held over the coming months. The first public meeting is scheduled for next week.