The third “action phase” of the White River Vision Plan begins Jan. 29 with a final series of public input meetings.
The plan is a community-driven effort led by the City of Indianapolis, Visit Indy, Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. and its many partner organizations to determine how to enhance the 58 miles of the White River in Indianapolis and Hamilton County. Residents and community leaders can learn about the suggested recommendations and timelines for new and existing destinations and areas of focus along the river, as well as ideas to improve system-wide river health and connectivity. Community members can also provide thoughts and ideas directly using an interactive mapping survey on mywhiteriver.com.
Public meetings during the last “action phase” of the White River Vision Plan will present design ideas for focus areas within six “river reaches” and gain feedback from the public. Participants will help prioritize the ideas and focus areas that could include destinations, recreational opportunities, environmental improvements and accessibility opportunities. New destinations and recreational assets will focus on areas with ecological, economic, historical and cultural significance and important nearby neighborhoods.
The final plan, delivered in late spring 2019 to stakeholders and community organizations, will incorporate feedback from these meetings into a comprehensive, action-oriented plan for the next 30 years.
“Studies show that open spaces and parks strengthen human relationships and make neighborhoods stronger, safer and more successful,” said Emily Mack, director of the Department of Metropolitan Development for the City of Indianapolis. “By restoring, enhancing and activating the White River, Central Indiana sets itself apart as a community that can work together to realize big dreams. This plan will steward residents and visitors toward a resilient, connected future that will contribute to the health of Central Indiana neighborhoods and its economy, which will improve the lives of Hoosiers for generations to come.”
Attendees may meet with city and county officials and core team members from the consulting team. There will be four meeting opportunities held in Hamilton County and Indianapolis.
“Since this process began in April 2018, we have worked carefully to hear the opinions and needs of communities all over Central Indiana,” said Brenda Myers, president and CEO of Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. “This is the first time community members can see that feedback and get a clear picture of next steps and action items for the White River.
For more information on the White River Vision Plan, or to take the interactive community survey, visit mywhiteriver.com.
About White River Vision Plan
The White River Vision Plan is a joint effort between the City of Indianapolis and Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. in partnership with Visit Indy’s philanthropic arm, Tourism Tomorrow, Inc. to develop a comprehensive and coordinated regional, community-driven plan to enhance 58 miles of the White River in Indianapolis and Hamilton County. The goal of the vision plan is to create an accessible, recreational, and cultural environment that encourages a unique sense of place for the community.