Two Mile White River Greenway Extension Opens

The White River Greenway is now a little longer.

The city cut the ribbon on a more than two-mile extension Friday morning.

The $3 million dollar project connects White River State Park to Raymond Street on the south side.

It’s designed to encourage more people to bike through the city which Parks Director John Williams says is an important piece of Indianapolis’ growth.

"Access to a major greenway trail is a key component to economic development and job growth in this neighborhood," he said.  "The addition of this trail can be an economic catalyst for the surrounding neighborhood."

The League of American Bicyclists presented Indy Mayor Greg Ballard with its annual leadership award.

President Andy Clarke says creating paths such as the greenway extension is what millennials are asking for from communities.

"This isn't just good for Individuals in this city, this is good for the city as a whole," said Clarke.  "If Indianapolis is going to continue to grow and thrive and attract the talent that you want in this city, this is the kind of thing that you want and expect."

The city expects to have 82 miles of bike paths by the end of the year.

"We have a trail system that is unbelievable compared to where we were just four years ago and it's getting better," said Ballard. "This is about creating the kind of city where people want to live in and that businesses want to come to."