6A: Support Trail/Greenway Development and Programming
Support the development of greenways and trails regionally, including the Indy Greenways Master Plan and the trails contained in the Indy Moves Transportation Plan. Beyond physical construction and routine maintenance, packaging of trails and destinations into trips, identity and promotion, and programming is important to maximize the opportunity such investments have on our community.
Value to the Community
Trails and greenways improve livability and allow neighbors to access other parts of Indy while also exploring their own neighborhood. Walking and biking also provide both mental and physical health benefits.Value to the Hospitality Industry
Creating a comprehensive, connected, regional trail system adds to our brand and reputation as a progressive destination. It also is a linking agent providing access to more experiences and regional centers, thereby extending visitor activities and length of stay. Slower modes of travel like biking and walking have also proven to result in greater spending particularly at local small businesses.Updates
- April 2022. Connected Communities Initiative receives $25m gift. The Lilly Endowment granted the Connected Communities Initiative, led by CICF, $25m to build 7.25 miles of trail, 4 miles of protected bike lanes and sidewalks, fund design for additional trails, and provide local match for other federal trail grant projects.
- April 2022. Nickel Plate Trail Receives NLT Funding. The Nickel Plate Trail received $12.6m in funding for the cities of Indianapolis, Fishers, and Noblesville to build the 17-mile trail. Next Level Trail funding was also awarded for the Lawrence Multi-Use Trail near Fort Harrison State Park.
- March 2022. Monon Trail widening. Indianapolis began widening the popular Monon Trail between 14th and 56th Streets with plans to do the same north of 56th Street in the next phase.
- September 2021. Circle City Forward Trail Investment. As part of its Circle City Forward initiative, the City of Indianapolis is investing $25m in new trail infrastructure.
- March 2021. Next Level Trails Awards. Several trail projects received second round NLT funding, including: Big Four Trail in Boone County, Steven Nation Community Pathway in Hamilton County, Pennsy Trail in Hancock County, Vandalia Trail in Hendricks County, and B&O Trail in Marion and Hendricks Counties.
- May 2019. Next Level Trails Awards. Several trail projects received first round NLT funding, including: Big Four Trail in Boone County, Franklin Street Trail in Hancock County, and B&O Trail in Marion County.
Key Partners
Confirmed Partners
Recommended Partners
Priority + Progress
Active priorities are the top 20% or so of actions that TTI is most focused on and engaged with.
TTI Role
The support role means TTI is actively supporting partners in their implementation of this action. This type of role is typically applicable when partners seek to engage Visit Indy regularly or seek help in an important yet limited role.
