2002 Indy Greenways Master Plan MISSION STATEMENT The Indianapolis Greenways System will: - Provide opportunities for recreation and fitness trail activities. - Protect important wildlife habitat and promote the conservation of open space, forests and wetland areas. - Link Indianapolis neighborhoods with each other and with parks and other community assets; - Educate the public about the importance of the natural environment of the Greenways System; - Become an economic asset to the community by promoting economic development and by making Indianapolis a desirable place where new businesses can locate. - Redevelop and manage the Marion County Bicycle Routes as part of the Indianapolis Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, which will connect the Greenways and Parks System to communities with the regional plan. Greenway corridors are a precious resource requiring careful attention when development that could compromise their integrity is proposed. Wise development patterns can enhance the greenways' natural and recreational attributes, while poor decisions can irreparably harm the community's greenway resource. This summation is intended to clarify Indy Parks Greenways' position regarding development proposals adjacent to its defined corridors. Background The Indianapolis Greenways System provides essential natural and cultural resources to the citizens of Marion County and to millions of Indianapolis visitors each year. Comprising 13 of the 20 greenways, the river and stream ecosystems allow habitat for a diversity of plant and animal species. These areas also provide water for our daily use and serve as natural purifiers for our environment. In conjunction with the waterways, Greenway conservation and trail corridors serve as passageways, food sources and breeding grounds for fish and wildlife. Furthermore, all of the greenways are significant for their historic place in this region's development. In addition to these inherent benefits, the rivers and Greenway corridors provide users with opportunities for environmental education and social interaction. They supply an invaluable urban asset to the communities of Indianapolis. The Indianapolis Greenways System is a popular recreational destination and a subject of social interest. Each corridor provides unique opportunities to exercise in a safe environment, encounter cultural amenities, explore historic landmarks, and delve into the community's art interests and businesses in both active and passive environments. The health benefits of exercise are overwhelmingly significant, and a large number of studies suggest that exercise provides substantial wellness and mental benefits. Greenways also provide a means of bicycle commuting from one part of the city to another. Stream Corridors Indy Parks Greenways supports the conservation of all river/creek corridors. Construction within the floodway and floodplain should be discouraged in the strongest terms. These corridors vary in their character, and therefore their development should vary as well. - Highly Developed corridors like Pogues Run, Pleasant Run, Crooked Creek and portions of Fall Creek, are presently bordered by intensely urban areas. Development opportunities often come from re-development or infill projects. Planners should encourage these projects to retreat from the stream banks, restore a naturalized buffer and preserve existing tree cover. - Developing Greenway corridors such as White River, Eagle Creek, Buck Creek, Grassy Creek, Little Buck Creek, White Lick Creek, Little Eagle Creek and portions of Fall Creek, pass through fast developing areas of the county. Development along these Greenways should be designed to preserve the integrity of the corridor's vegetation and character, while allowing for trail development and connections. This can be accomplished through the zoning approval process, whereby segments of these corridors can be preserved and gifted to Indy Parks or set aside as common property with a recreation easement granted to Indy Parks. - Rural corridors in Marion County are experiencing little development pressure. The Mud Creek and Indian Creek corridors are largely held by individual homeowners who enjoy the wooded character as a part of their backyards. Further development along these streams should not be permitted to compromise the physical or aesthetic integrity of the Greenway. Other Corridors When considering development of the corridors established or planned along existing infrastructure, Indy Parks Greenways position is to balance economic objectives, social goals and environmental resources. Most land uses have an appropriate place adjacent to these corridors; however the appropriateness of a particular project depends greatly upon the project's context as well as on the treatment of the transitional space between trail and development. These corridors include the following: Monon Rail-Trail, B&O, Pennsy and the Central Canal Towpath. - Low-Density Residential development has proven to be a tremendous asset to a Greenway trail's success. Planners should take care to design these areas with both sufficient access to the trail for residents and appropriate vegetated buffers between homes and the trail. - High-Density Residential development is a common trail neighbor. These development plans should include a significant buffer area between the trail and parking lots or buildings. This buffer should be of sufficient width to include multiple layers of vegetative screening, including a mixture of evergreens and deciduous plants. Once again access to the trail for residents use is an important element in the success of both trail and development. - Commercial uses are common along existing trails, most visibly in the areas of the Monon Rail-Trail and 86th Street and in Broad Ripple. The high volume of trail users and their interests have proven a draw for a number of commercial establishments. This is a partnership than can work well if careful consideration is given to transitional space between uses. For example, in urbanized areas such as Broad Ripple, the trail should be accessed by way of existing infrastructure such as streets and sidewalks. Additional access points threaten to disrupt the flow of trail traffic, may create a safety issue, and should be carefully evaluated. It is also important, in many cases, to allow for some physical separation between those people using the trail and those not. Sidewalk retail, fast food, outdoor dining and other gathering spaces should be set back from the trail corridor. The two uses can and should complement, but not compete with, each other. Another issue of importance is the visual impact of commercial development adjacent to a trail, including that of parking areas, loading docks and advertising signage. Trail neighbors should be encouraged not turn their backs on the trail but rather to enhance their properties. - Industrial uses along the trail must be treated on a case by case basis. As a general rule however, complete visual and physical buffering are of paramount importance. When buildings and outdoor operations are unavoidably visible from the trail, murals and other creative measures should be incorporated to lessen the impact. - Special Uses such as churches, schools, libraries and other community destinations are important relationships for Greenways to develop. These destinations, in combination with access from residential areas, provide a transportation option to county residents. From the development standpoint, these amenities should be looked at as commercial in nature, and should be designed in a similar manner. There may be instances where a certain property adjacent to a Greenway should not be developed. Unique natural, cultural or historic characteristics may factor in this determination. The lack of sufficient space to buffer trail users could also make this the case. These situations offer the opportunity for a landowner to set aside a property for preservation, either privately, or through the vehicle of the Parks Department, Greenways Foundation or other non-profit organizations. Bike, Pedestrian and Connectivity Plans Indy Parks is in the process of drafting Township Connectivity Plans for the eight surrounding townships in Marion County. The purpose of these plans is to further connect residential areas to commercial and social centers within the community. Key nodes are schools, parks, libraries and commercial districts. Linking these key nodes is accomplished by incorporating traditional Greenways plans, the Marion County Bike Route Plan and other infrastructure improvements within City government. Connectivity Plans are done at a finer scale than existing Greenways plans, and help to further define trail routes. These plans explore opportunities for connectivity beyond stream corridors and rail-trails such as utility corridors, including pipelines and overhead lines, on-street and off-street trails in the public right-of-way and trails on common property of residential developments. Development along these corridors should be looked at in the context of the surrounding neighborhood. If primarily rural in character, development adjacent to these connecting trails should not compromise the trail, neither visually nor physically. If the context is urban or suburban, guidelines spelled out above for trails like the Monon Rail- Trail are applicable. When these trail connections are adjacent to streets, they should be evaluated primarily as transportation corridors, with function and safety at primary concerns. Two other components of county-wide connectivity planning are the Marion County Bike Route Plan, completed in 2001 and the Marion County Pedestrian Plan, still in development in 2002. Indy Parks Greenways plays a significant role in both the development and implementation of these plans. Naturally, the 20 Greenway corridors and other parts of the connectivity infrastructure should form the backbone of bike and pedestrian plans within Indianapolis. Glossary Greenway: A linear open space that connects park components to form a cohesive park, recreation and open space system. Indianapolis Greenways System: The network of 20 Greenways identified in Marion County, including both Greenway trails, conservation corridors and connectivity trails. Connectivity Trails: A trail system utilizing new sidewalks and trails to serve as connections to major Greenways or other destinations such as schools, neighborhoods and parks. Conservation Corridor: A Greenway corridor, generally along a watercourse, that has been identified as environmentally significant. Indy Parks Greenways works to protect these corridors both through acquisition, conservation easements and public education. Active Recreation: Recreational activities that require intense physical exercise such as soccer, basketball, bicycling and jogging. Passive Recreation: Recreational activities that do not require intense physical exercise such as walking, nature study, birdwatching and fishing. Infrastructure: The underlying foundation or basic framework of a city, including streets, parks bridges, sewers, streetlights, sidewalks and other utilities. SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION The Indianapolis Greenways Plan describes the community's vision for a regional network of linear open space that connects neighborhoods and promotes recreation, fitness, alternative transportation and conservation. This network, known as the Indianapolis Greenways System, will benefit not only Marion County, but will also help connect the entire central region of Indiana. The Indianapolis Greenways Plan perpetuates the dream of park-lined rivers and streams envisioned in the early part of the 20th century while answering the need for reconnecting our communities together in the 21st century. This plan also builds on initiatives established in the Pathways To The Future-- Indianapolis-Marion County Park, Recreation & Open Space Plan, published by Indy Parks for the City of Indianapolis in 1999 and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, prepared by the Metropolitan Planning Organization and adopted in 2000. The Indy Parks Comprehensive Plan--Pathways To The Future focuses attention on the city's existing parks and recreation system, establishes short and long-term park planning guidelines and priorities, and offers guidance to decision-makers by establishing priorities and action schedules. The updated Indianapolis Greenways Plan continues the focus of the 1999 Pathways To The Future plan by identifying and prioritizing greenway linkages to parks, neighborhoods and other primary nodes of activities such as schools and commercial centers. The plan also encourages the protection of natural areas and the acquisition of linear open space and greenways throughout the county by establishing funding priorities for acquisition, development, restoration and enhancement of the greenway corridors. What Is a "Greenway" A greenway is a linear open space that connects park components to form a cohesive park, recreation and open space system. It expands recreational opportunities and aids in the protection of wildlife and scenic regions. A greenway allows for safe and uninterrupted pedestrian or non-motorized transportation between community destinations including park, recreation and neighborhood components. Appearing as "ribbons" of green, greenways can increase the opportunities for recreation and provide accessibility to more people, places, neighborhoods and cultural resources within a city. Greenways can include recreational assets such as biking and hiking trails, or they can be as simple and natural--and ecologically important--as a stretch of stream bank left wild. Greenways are not a new idea. They were "invented" by the pioneering American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who developed "park ways" to knit parks together in Boston, MA and Brooklyn, NY. Inspired by Olmsted in the 1880s, George Kessler, a noted city planner and landscape architect from Kansas City, developed similar plans including a system for Indianapolis. Lawrence Sheridan, a landscape architect for the City of Indianapolis, expanded the themes of the Kessler Plan in 1928 to include all of Marion County. Today, Olmsted's, Kessler's and Sheridan's legacy of identifying and preserving linear parcels of parkland for pathways and open space is being recognized for the enhancement of the quality of life in Indianapolis. How the Updated Indianapolis Greenways Plan Will Be Used The Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan 2002 will do the following: - Identify and prioritize the development of greenway corridors and trails to connect the entire county. - Assist in the implementation of plan recommendations by identifying resources necessary to fund the development of the Greenways System. - Identify key portions of the Greenways System that should be conserved or developed sensitively for passive recreation. - Increase the level of awareness and understanding of the importance of natural Greenways Systems to the region. - Encourage the people of Indianapolis to be involved in the continued development of the Greenways System as an integral component in the future development of the city. - Form a foundation for initiatives such as alternative transportation and flood and habitat protection. Why We Need the Indianapolis Greenways System The Indianapolis Greenways System can help solve many problems that face Marion County. Demand for self-directed recreational opportunities and open space is increasing while the fulfillment resources are disappearing. Below are some of the ways greenways can help. - Green Space for Parks and Recreation. Since greenways are linear, they can reach many neighborhoods and can help provide open space and recreational opportunities especially in densely developed areas of the city. Just as important, greenways can provide access to larger neighborhood, community and regional parks for the neighborhoods by providing corridors that reduce traffic conflicts, provide safety and are fun to use. In addition, the linear form of greenways makes it a great place for establishing trails for hiking, jogging, bicycling, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and even cross-country skiing. Such trails are more suited to greenways since they permit continuous path systems without interruption from heavy vehicular traffic on major thoroughfares. Park acreage within Marion County is not equally distributed nor is it adequate to provide for the current population. The supply of parkland is currently 5.18 acres per 1000 persons for regional parks, 1.04 acres per 1000 pop. for community parks, 1.30 acres per 1000 pop. for neighborhood parks and .07 miles per 1000 pop. of trails . The new Indy Parks adopted standards for park acreage established in the "Pathways to the Future Plan" is to reach 10.0 acres per 1000 persons for regional parks, 6.0 acres per 1000 pop. for community parks, 1.3 acres per 1000 pop. for neighborhood parks and .15 miles per 1000 pop. of trails. New greenways can help to improve the deficiency of park and open space acreage by creating links between parks, thereby increasing public access to parklands available and by converting land (such as flood control corridors) to recreation use not previously available. In addition, greenways can be included in plans for new development and provide open space and recreational opportunities within new communities where natural resources are dwindling. Time is becoming critical in many areas of Marion County where very little open space now exists. According to the 1999 "Pathways to the Future" plan, preserving open space and natural areas is a high priority for Indy Parks and Greenways. To accomplish this goal in a meaningful way many different strategies other than outright purchase will need to be explored and utilized. - Improve Quality of Life. Indianapolis has made great strides in the past few decades and has moved in the right direction to become one of America's most livable cities. The continued growth of the greenways system proposed in this plan will complement these efforts. The Indianapolis Greenways system will join a variety of cultural, recreational, athletic, academic, and leisure facilities critical to Indianapolis' future success and allow the city to become more livable and vibrant. As citizens incorporate fitness activities in their daily routines, access to the recreational opportunities available within the Greenways system can only help efforts to improve health and fitness. On another level, greenways created simultaneously with subdivisions in newly developed areas will enhance the quality of life by increasing the accessibility to recreation and nature. - Links throughout the Community. Like most metropolitan areas in the United States, Indianapolis continues to rapidly suburbanize, dispersing population and developed land over a wider area. Although important to the future of Indianapolis, development seldom seems to be mindful of what resources still remain in the city--wooded areas, agricultural land, wetlands, river and stream corridors, and areas that provide scenic views. Greenways--when they are developed carefully in unison with subdivisions, commercial areas, and even new industrial areas--can complement, not hinder, development and allow new areas to acquire the lived-in feeling of older parts of the community. Conveniently, greenways are often located in the extra space along rivers and streams where building is undesirable due to flooding. Also, many of the major stream corridors and the White River all flow through the urban core of the city, making the Greenway system accessible to a large population of urban residents. This is an important feature when considering opportunities for alternative transportation to work and play. When the Indianapolis Greenways Plan is complete, it will link over 100 major destinations with neighborhoods throughout Marion County (see Table *). - Protection of Environmental Resources. Greenway development helps preserve the natural landscape for future enjoyment and appreciation. Indianapolis greenways are home to some of Indiana's many beneficial plant and animal communities, including the black-crowned night heron, eastern sand darter, spotted turtle, badger, and native plants and flowers. Greenways protect natural habitat from degradation, particularly since many of the greenway corridors are along rivers and streams, some of the most important habitat left in Marion County. Even in an urban environment like Indianapolis, a great diversity of plant and animal life can be found: over 341 species and subspecies of birds, 754 species of plants, and 60 species of trees have been identified. The region is also an important stopover point for migrating birds during the spring and fall. Another benefit is that the greenway corridor rivers and streams play an important role in protecting water quality. The rocks, gravel, silt, and vegetation within the river and stream corridors act as nature's filter intercepting sediment and pollution, naturally cleaning the water flowing through them. - Protection for Historic and Cultural Resources. The river, streams, rail and interurban corridors within the county each played a role in the development of the city. As you travel along the corridors of the Indianapolis Greenway System you can see the locations and replay the events that make up the history of the development of Indianapolis and the smaller communities within its borders. Many of Indianapolis' best historic, cultural, and civic resources are located within or adjacent to corridors within the Greenways System. Examples of historic and cultural properties include publicly owned facilities such as the location of McCormick's cabin (the home of the first settler), the Sunken Gardens at Garfield Park as well as nationally recognized Historic Districts such as Irvington, Woodruff Place and the Michigan Road Toll House. Institutions such as Marian College, Butler University, Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the White River State Park and the Indianapolis Zoo all border the Greenways System. Major attractions including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the RCA Dome, Circle Centre, Victory Field and Conseco Fieldhouse are all accessible to the system, as well as the commercial areas in downtown Indianapolis, Nora-Northside Community, Fountain Square and Broad Ripple Village. The Indianapolis Greenways Plan offers an opportunity to tie these resources together and make them accessible to the people, who can use the greenway corridors as alternate forms of transportation. By making these institutions more accessible and by providing interpretive historic information, the Greenways System will help increase interest in their preservation and restoration and in some cases provide for greater economic stability. - Stimulate Economic Development. The Greenways System will help the economic base of the city by making it desirable for new businesses to locate in Indianapolis. Also, there already are opportunities along the corridors for small businesses to sell goods and services to trail users. The Greenways System will also complement efforts to attract tourism and special events by providing alternative transportation corridors and attractive recreation facilities. Studies from around the country show that there is a positive impact on values of properties near or adjacent to public open spaces and trails. The positive impact is greatest where there is effective maintenance and security, limited vehicular access and park development oriented to open space rather than intensely developed park facilities. According to the National Park Service, "One implication of the study is that increases in property values depend on the ability of developers, planners and greenway proponents to successfully integrate neighborhood development and open space." Open space systems have also been shown to help regional tourism, business attraction and retention. - Storm Water Management System. Marion County's rivers and streams aren't only home to an interesting array of plants and animals; they also serve an important utilitarian purpose- they're Indianapolis' natural storm water drainage and flood control system. This system works best when a stream and its riparian zone-floodplain, banks, and wooded uplands-are protected. Riparian zones moderate water flow using the resistance caused by vegetation, the absorption by soil and plants, and the discharge into groundwater. These zones filter nutrients, harmful chemicals, and sediment from the stream. Also, these zones offer a convenient location for biking and hiking trails and nature viewing. Natural storm water management systems reduce the need for elaborate constructed systems of levees, concrete, pipes, and manholes to control water flow. Most people would agree that leaving areas of water, grass, and trees intact is a more attractive solution to storm water management than a straightened streambed of concrete. Allowing these areas to remain in their natural state is a cost-effective solution to storm water management that permits limited recreation while protecting people and property from flood damage. The existing system of levees designed for flood control are also convenient areas for trail development since access for service and inspection is required and because they are regularly mowed and maintained thereby reducing the greenway maintenance costs. What's in This Document This report describes the process that was used to update the Indianapolis Greenways Plan. The report is divided into five sections: - Section 1 concentrates on background information. It gives a description of how greenways can add value to a community, describes the history of parkway and greenway development in Indianapolis, presents a review of the planning process and describes the resulting greenway development themes. - Section 2 explores the new themes that emerged from the 2000 public planning process and summarizes key areas of focus for the future. - Section 3 focuses on the specific greenway corridors. It presents physical information and the vision for each corridor. - Section 4 presents action steps, costs, and a timetable for implementing the 2000 Indianapolis Greenways Plan. - Section 5 is an appendix with related corridor planning studies and the public planning process documents. Indianapolis Greenways History The following is a summary of the efforts of many people to make the Indianapolis Greenways System a reality. Early Planning Efforts: from Parkway to Greenway Indianapolis holds an important place in the early history of comprehensive, countywide parks and recreation plans in the United States. In the latter part of the nineteenth century, civic leaders realized that natural areas within the city were quickly being developed and that the need of citizens for parks and open space was increasing. The city responded by forming the Board of Park Commissioners in 1885 to develop a park system. The city believed that a formal park system would be a way to preserve land for open space and recreational uses and to protect it from future development. To assess the city's park needs, the board hired the well-known landscape architect John C. Olmsted, the son of Frederick Law Olmsted. John C. Olmsted developed a six-point plan that called for the development of parkways along rivers and streams. These parkways would connect existing parks and other parks that Olmsted recommended for development. In fact, Olmsted's work initiated the acquisition of land for Brookside Park along Pogues Run and Riverside Park on the banks of White River. From 1908 to 1915 city planner and landscape architect George Kessler was retained by the Park Board to serve as the Consulting Landscape Architect to continue implementing and expanding the plan. Prior to coming to Indianapolis, Kessler was the author of a plan for Kansas City's park and boulevard system. At about the same time that Kessler was developing the Indianapolis park system plan; he began work on a park plan for Fort Wayne. In his plans for both Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, Kessler argued for reserving land along the city's rivers and streams for parks and using tree-lined boulevards to connect the parks. The result of Kessler's studies in Indianapolis was his 1909 plan, commonly called the "Kessler Plan." Determined by the physical features of the city, the Kessler Plan proposed a chain of continuous parks that would extend to every neighborhood of the city. By acquiring open spaces adjacent to boulevards, the city could create a series of small neighborhood parks and playgrounds for the entire community. Another key aspect of Kessler's plan was the preservation of low-lying areas near streams and rivers to protect natural floodways. The result of this plan would be a parkway system that would greatly benefit the city. The legacy of the Kessler Plan is the existing parks and parkways it recommends- White River, Fall Creek, Pleasant Run and Burdsal Parkways, Garfield Park, and the elegant stone bridges Kessler designed throughout the city. His plan also recommended the full development of Olmsted's Riverside Park and Brookside Park. The strength of Kessler's plan was its vision for Indianapolis' future. To this day, Kessler's parks and parkways are the backbone of the Indianapolis Park system. The "Kessler Plan", Indianapolis Park and Boulevard Plan, is recognized as the Centennial Award recipient by the American Society of Landscape Architects for the 20th Century. In 1928, Lawrence V. Sheridan initiated and developed a comprehensive park development plan for the city of Indianapolis and Marion County. He expanded the "Kessler Plan" to the county boundary and included tributaries like Little Buck Creek, Little Eagle Creek and Lick Creek into the plan, which were also included in the 1982 Indianapolis Parkway System. The 1929 plan "The Leisure of the People" provided a comprehensive look at both public and private recreation needs within the city. This plan proposed expansion of park acreage, facilities, and programs and called for the park and school boards to cooperatively plan new sites. The 1929 plan was innovative because it charged civic organizations throughout the city with promoting healthy recreation and better leisure opportunities; also, the plan recommended that land developers and builders should be required to set aside portions of new subdivisions "for perpetual parks and playgrounds." The period between 1929 and 1960 saw little planning on the Indianapolis park system. After World War II, Indianapolis and other cities began to expand outward rapidly. Unfortunately, this growth did not include plans for parks and recreational areas to complement and enrich the new neighborhoods that were developing around Indianapolis. The stages of Indianapolis development are shown in the graphic on page **. Between 1960 and 1992, six countywide park plans were written. Unlike their predecessors, these plans were developed jointly between two city agencies, the Indianapolis Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the Indianapolis Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD). These cooperative efforts affirmed the important connection between parks and recreation facilities and the quality of life of Indianapolis' neighborhoods. Among the five plans, 1982's Indianapolis Parkway System Plan is notable because it proposed the development of a countywide parkway system linking newly developed areas with many of the Kessler Plan and Sheridan Plan parkways. The 1982 plan's intent was to produce a system that was attractive and useful for all--automobile drivers, bicyclists, hikers, joggers, and pedestrians that would provide the freedom of choices for the citizens of Marion County. Planning Process 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Plan The 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Plan was the first comprehensive update of the Kessler Plan since it was published over 90 years ago. It was the culmination of a three-year effort to plan for the future of the greenway system in Indianapolis. The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD) received technical assistance from the National Park Service (NPS) and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) during the initial planning stages. This assistance brought a wealth of knowledge regarding greenway planning efforts from around the country and was instrumental in bringing the planning effort to fruition. Following is a description of the efforts of these groups: - The National Park Service and the Indianapolis Department of Parks and Recreation. This planning effort began in the early 1990's when the DPR started a relationship with the NPS Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program. This program assisted citizen groups, private nonprofit organizations, and state and local park planners in protecting and enhancing greenway assets in the following ways: - Providing technical expertise - Organizing public participation - Educating both city officials and the public on mechanisms to implement greenways plans In considering which cities, counties, and states should receive funding assistance, the NPS evaluated many factors: the existence of manageable greenway resources, strong citizen interest, political leadership committed to greenway development, a track record of greenway activism, and local staff with expertise in parks and recreation planning-elements that the City of Indianapolis possessed. The Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program elected to provide assistance to the City of Indianapolis in its quest to develop a new Greenways Plan. The chief role this program played in the early stages was to help organize public participation, the program's paramount goal. Public meetings were held in 1992 and 1993 in conjunction with these efforts. These meetings generated considerable interest in the greenway planning process. - Department of Metropolitan Development At the same time, DMD was working on greenways planning through its role in guiding the development of the city. In 1990, DMD initiated a series of comprehensive land use plans for Marion County's nine townships. In every township, the comprehensive plans identified linear parks-located along rivers, streams, and historic rail corridors-as-important environmental features and critical areas. The Township Comprehensive Land Use Plans are notable because they involved extensive public input from community leaders, neighborhood associations, and special interest groups, along with technical support from DMD land use planners. They are also the designated land use plans used today. DMD is currently updating the Marion County comprehensive land use plan, called the Indianapolis Insight Plan. - Greenway Development Board. In 1990, the Indianapolis City-County Council created the White River Greenway Task Force. The council charged the task force with "the mission of researching governmental jurisdictions affecting the river; considering carefully the river's importance in such areas as recreation, homes, general aesthetics, wildlife, trees, flora, businesses, drainage, agriculture, bridges, the edges of the river, and quarries; and concluding with a practical, imaginative, consensus plan for the future improvement of White River and its banks for the benefit of the people of this city." A year later, the council established the task force as a permanent committee and made it responsible for "implementing the strategic plan for the White River linear park/greenway corridor and [its] operation and maintenance." In 1991, the Mayor and City-County Council created the White River Greenway Development Board by special resolution to continue these efforts. The board, in conjunction with the White River Greenway Foundation, Inc. (WRGFI) (a nonprofit funding source), organized events such as a riverbank clean-up project which removed over 700 tons of trash, involved thousands of volunteers and raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support the greenway cause. In January 1994, the board recommended it be reconstituted as the Indianapolis Metropolitan Greenways Commission to reflect the regional interest in the greenways movement and to recommend and support the implementation of 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Plan. In 1995 this commission evolved further when the Indianapolis City-County Council, by general ordinance, established the Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee. The designated purpose of the Committee is to advise the Board of the Indianapolis Department of Parks and Recreation and to encourage use, preservation and improvement of the Indianapolis Greenways with regard to present and future operations, development, recreation and its natural environment. The work of DPR, DMD, and the NPS was combined in 1992 when community groups throughout Marion County were surveyed to identify areas where public interest for greenways was greatest. The survey identified 14 corridors as the basis of the Indianapolis Greenways Plan. Later that year, teams consisting of representatives from DPR, DMD, NPS, and IDNR visited each corridor to document existing conditions. This fieldwork served as the basis for public involvement in the Indianapolis Greenways Plan. In early 1993, the Indianapolis Parks and Recreation Board approved the planning process for the Indianapolis Greenways Plan and focused on input from the citizens of Marion County. Continuing the public's important role in the development of the 14 corridor plans, citizen leaders from across the county were asked to design the greenways of the future in at least 17 public meetings that took place throughout the county. These meetings, which all occurred during the summer of 1993, were different from earlier public meetings because they focused on specific corridors. Two types of meetings were held-three meetings for each corridor group and three Greenways Steering Committee meetings. The Greenways Steering Committee consisted of leaders elected by the corridor groups. Both meeting types are described below. - First Round of Corridor Meetings. The public meetings were combined so that only five meetings were required to accommodate the corridors being studied in the Indianapolis Greenways Plan. The Monon Rail Corridor was being studied through a separate master planning effort organized by the Department of Metropolitan Development and was not included in these series of planning meetings. The corridors were combined in the following manner: - Pleasant Run and Pogues Run - White River, IWC Canal, and Crooked Creek - Fall Creek, Indian Creek, and Mud Creek - Eagle Creek, White Lick Creek, and B&O Rail Corridor - Buck Creek and Grassy Creek The first public meetings introduced citizens to their study area and the Indianapolis Greenways Plan process. These meetings also prepared citizen members to conduct field trips in their respective corridors to study and record existing conditions. Citizens were introduced to the greenway opportunities that existed in their communities and were given a brief outline of the history of park development in Indianapolis. The participants were divided into corridor groups according to the river, stream, or rail corridor they were most interested in. Individuals in each corridor group were asked to select a segment of the corridor, visit it, and make field notes on the corridor's existing conditions. Each citizen was given a corridor segment map to use in the field and an evaluation form. At the conclusion of the meeting, each corridor group was asked to select a team leader to represent the group in Greenways Steering Committee meetings that would take place at a countywide level. - Second Round of Corridor Meetings. The goal of the second round of meetings was to assist the corridor teams, based on their field observations, in determining how the corridor could be used on a conceptual basis. In these meetings, the corridor groups met and compared their field notes for the first half of the meeting. The groups were asked to reach a consensus on the types of activities and priorities they thought would work best for their corridor. Although representatives from DPR, DMD, and the city's planning consultant were available to assist the corridor groups, the groups were asked to envision the development of the corridors for themselves. At the conclusion of the meeting, team leaders were asked to present their corridor group's vision statements to all in attendance. - Third Round of Corridor Meetings. The purpose of the final series of meetings was to arrive at a "final design" for the proposed greenway corridors. The first order of business was for the city and its consultant to present to the corridor groups a refined version of the concepts identified at the second round of meetings and to ask for revisions and additional comments. Afterward, corridor team leaders were asked to present the final design of their corridor. - Greenways Steering Committee Meetings. The other aspect of citizen involvement in the 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Plan was the Greenways Steering Committee. This committee was comprised of all the team leaders selected at the first round of corridor meetings. The committee was formed to guide the design of the countywide Indianapolis Greenways Plan in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. Also, the committee encouraged team leaders from across the county to compare and share ideas and resolve possible conflicts where corridors cross or join. When all vision statements were finalized, the Greenways Steering Committee participated in a presentation of findings to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Greenways Commission, the Parks Board, the Metropolitan Development Commission and the City-County Council. There were14 greenway corridors identified in the 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan. These are listed below. B&O Rail Corridor Central Canal Towpath Buck Creek Greenway Monon Rail Trail Crooked Creek Greenway Mud Creek Greenway Eagle Creek Greenway Pleasant Run Greenway Fall Creek Greenway Pogues Run Greenway Grassy Creek Greenway White Lick Creek Greenway Indian Creek Greenway White River Greenway The corridors identified in the 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Plan reflect the diversity of Marion County-from the densely urban areas along Pleasant Run and White River to the rural landscape along Buck Creek in the southeastern part of the county. In all, the Indianapolis Greenways System included 11 river and streams, one 1836 canal towpath and two former rail corridors. Greenway Development Themes During the public meetings for the 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Plan, citizens from throughout Marion County were asked to express their visions for the development of each of the greenway corridors. These public vision statements are based on four broad themes- linkage, recreation, conservation and preservation, and education. Linkage Linking important community assets together is an integral role of greenways. Links can occur on several levels-greenways linking parts of a neighborhood, greenways linking Indianapolis neighborhoods together, and greenways linking Indianapolis to the central Indiana region. Greenways are an excellent alternative transportation route. Instead of using a car for neighborhood errands, residents can walk or ride a bicycle along the greenway to their destination. Throughout the county, existing Greenways can also connect neighborhoods within the city. They can allow people throughout Marion County to enjoy cultural facilities such as the Eiteljorg Museum, Indianapolis Museum of Art, Indianapolis Zoo, and White River State Park or event centers such as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Museum or the RCA Dome. The corridors being studied in the Indianapolis Greenways Plan do not stop at the borders of Marion County. The White River is part of a watershed that encompasses a large section of central and southern Indiana. Likewise, the B&O Rail corridor extends over 70 miles west to the Ernie Pyle State Memorial in Vermillion County. Both are examples of opportunities to link Marion County to the entire central Indiana region. Recreation When people think of greenways, the self-directed recreational opportunities they provide seem to come to mind first. Since greenways are corridors and linear in nature, with only a small amount of acreage they can serve a larger area than a conventional park. Generally, the most common recreational opportunity presented by a greenway corridor is a trail. Because most greenway corridors follow rail corridors or watercourses, trails are a natural use. The types of uses suggested in the corridor meetings included trails for bicycling, walking, hiking, nature study, bird watching and running. In the proper locations, a need for horseback riding and mountain bike trails was also suggested. The Indianapolis Greenways Plan can also be a vehicle to develop other recreational opportunities such as picnic facilities, open space play areas and areas for linear exercise courses. Water sports like canoeing and fishing could also be appropriate on some of the greenways. Canoe and boat launches, where practical, could be developed. Conservation and Preservation Despite the fact that much of Marion County is developed, several of the greenway corridors being studied in the Indianapolis Greenways Plan are prime habitat for many species of wildlife. Most people would expect to find fresh deer and coyote tracks along stretches of Buck Creek in rural Franklin Township. Not as many would expect to find healthy populations of the normally reclusive great blue heron on White River just north of downtown Indianapolis. The Indianapolis Greenways Plan offers an opportunity to protect some of the last pieces of habitat within Marion County, with 40 percent of the greenways being dedicated to conservation and 60 percent for recreation/linkage purposes. Not all conservation areas are designed specifically to protect wildlife-many are simply meant to protect areas from imminent or future development. Setting aside greenway corridors can protect scenic and historic areas, or lowlands where flood damage is a recurring problem. Two examples of conservation vision statements developed by the 1994 corridor teams include those developed for Indian Creek and Mud Creek. The Indian Creek corridor team decided that all areas along the creek should be preserved as natural areas, with no trails, water recreation, or other development permitted in order to preserve water quality and visual aesthetics. The Mud Creek corridor team decided that since the abundant wildlife and vegetation make this corridor a unique environment within the Indianapolis region, the corridor should be preserved without a trail or active recreation facility. Education The greenways can provide places to teach both children and adults the natural sciences and the principles of environmental management. The education process is easier because greenways can provide safe access to children and adults to and from homes and schools. Several opportunities exist to use the greenways as living classrooms. For instance, schools adjacent to the greenways can offer various programs, or interpretive signage can be placed at key points of interest. The Crooked Creek corridor team suggested that an environmental education center could be created at Brebeuf Preparatory School. The center could also serve as a monitoring station for the wetland located near the school. Also, the South White River corridor team decided that a multipurpose classroom/aquatic resource center could be developed at Southwestway Park along the White River. Interpretive signage and educational programming could be made available on virtually all of the greenway corridors. Additionally, Indy Parks Greenways has sponsored academic research of greenways for year 2000 to be made available for public access as part of a library of resources at the Indy Parks Greenways Depot headquarters. Educational research of the Monon Trail continues with the assistance of Dr. Greg Lindsey at IUPUI. Table Showing Summary of Action Steps from 1994 Greenways Plan Proposed Action Primary Responsibility Accomplishments Implement approximately 15 miles of trail per year so that by 1999 half of the system is in place. Make a concerted effort to create a countywide network of trails with an emphasis on connecting all the corridors. Indy Parks Greenways IGDC Completed Trails include: Monon Rail Trail ­ 7.6 miles Central Canal Towpath ­ 5.25 miles White River Trail ­ 4.75 miles Pleasant Run Trail ­ 6.9 miles Fall Creek Trail ­ 3.2 miles TOTAL MILES COMPLETED = 27.7 info taken from user guide INSERT GRAPH SHOWING MILEAGE? Appoint a security force to regularly patrol the corridors and provide assistance to trail users. The security force should act as public relations agents for the city. Department of Public Safety Greenways Foundation, Inc The Park Ranger program was expanded in 1994 to include all the greenways. A Trail Monitor Program financed by the Greenways Foundation (GF) has been implemented to act as extra eyes and ears of public safety agencies. GF has also purchased bikes for Ranger patrols. In addition, citizen volunteers also report maintenance issues for trail mgmt. The creation and establishment of the Monon Trail Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Bike Team in partnership with Clarian Health. The establishment of the Bicycle Patrol Unit from Indianapolis Police Department fosters successful community policing. Continue to lobby the state legislature for passage of the Recreational Users Law and conservation easement laws. Indy Parks With leadership from Indy Parks, Greenways and IPRA the Recreational Users Law was passed in 1995, protecting the interest of Parks and Recreation Departments as well as property owners from liability issues. Continued encouragement by various boards for better use of land through greenways development and best management practices. Construct two corridor demonstration projects. Schedule their completion before the end of 1994. Indy Parks Greenways Planning for the Monon Rail Trail began in 1994 and the Fall Creek pilot trail was completed in 1996. Actively seek funding opportunities. Indy Parks Greenways As of 2000 Greenways has brought in nearly $18 million dollars of funding for greenway projects above and beyond the local tax dollars. INSERT FUNDING GRAPH Explore economic development opportunities, like encouraging businesses to locate along the trails. Dept. of Metropolitan Development Greenways have worked with VEZ, NORA CC, BRVA and developers to promote economic development along the Greenways. A successful brownfield redevelopment project was completed along the Monon Rail Trail and included creation of public art. Completed greenways have successfully impacted revitalization of areas such as Broad Ripple Village, Nora Shopping Plaza and Fountain Square. Increase efforts for land acquisition and property protection through easements, purchases and land donations. Indy Parks Properties such as Town Run Park, Cottonwood Lake, IMA Nature Park, Canal Towpath etc. have been acquired through purchase, lease, and easement donation or agreement. INSERT CHART/TABLE WITH ACQUISITION NUMBERS Aggressively pursue a solution to the CSO problem. Continue studying opportunities and seek funding for infrastructure improvements. Begin to implement solutions along White River and Fall Creek by 1995. Department of Public Works/ Department of Capital Asset Management, IWC Wellhead Protection Initiative, Watershed Management Team Watershed teams from various city agencies have been developed to coordinate these efforts. Continue public clean-up efforts in all corridors. Develop stewardship and corridor maintenance programs for communities. Indy Parks Greenways, Dept. of Public Works, Greenways Foundation, Inc In 2000, Greenways conducted the 12th annual clean up with DPW. Over 14 additional clean-ups are coordinated and conducted each year with various community groups. Facilitate easy public access to all greenways with roadway and sidewalk improvement projects. Department of Public Works/ Department of Capital Asset Management Development of the Living Links Plan and the Marion Co. Bike Route System Plan has moved this effort into a current grant-seeking and design phase. Seek the continued participation of corporations, the general public, area neighborhoods, and related nonprofit organizations for donations and corridor adoption programs. Indy Parks Greenways Partnership development has brought in over $1 million of added benefit per year. Actively pursue public education programs in the corridors and investigate the possibility of establishing learning centers near the trails. Indy Parks Greenways Greenways played an important role in the development of a dept.- wide Environmental Education program. Partnerships with Craig Jr. High, Indianapolis Public School #47, IPS 31, Nora Elementary, Broad Ripple High School, Indiana Deaf School, Immaculate Heart of Mary School and Indianapolis Public School #86 are a few of the locations where Greenways has promoted environmental education and nature awareness. Partnership with Indiana University Purdue University at Indianapolis (IUPUI) facilitates the evaluation and monitoring of our greenways development progress. Partnership with Ball State University and American Society of Landscape Architects facilitates and stimulates the discussion of community development. Butler University has partnered to conduct environmental work along the Central Canal Corridor. SECTION 2 INDIANAPOLIS GREENWAYS MASTER PLAN 2002 Summary of Public Planning Process Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan In early 1999 the Greenways management team began the process of updating the 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan. Realizing that many of the plans envisioned by the public during the previous master planning process were still current and not yet completed, it was determined that the 1994 public vision statements for each undeveloped corridor would be retained in the updated version of the Master Plan. The focus of the 2002 planning process would be to evaluate the public's response to the greenway corridors developed since 1994, consider additional potential greenway corridors, incorporate related planning efforts into the Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan 2002 and identify community priorities for future implementation. - First Round of Greenways Plan Update Public Meetings. During July of 1999 public input meetings were held at six locations around the county, including at the regularly scheduled public monthly Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee meeting. During each meeting an overview was given of the existing Greenways Plan and the Greenway Trails which were operating at that time. Members of Indy Parks Greenways, the Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee, Indy Parks Planning and the Greenway planning consultant were then stationed at several comment boards to take suggestions and comments from the public and answer questions. These comments were then summarized at the conclusion of the meeting and additional comments were added. Participant survey forms were also distributed to meeting attendees. This survey asked for a prioritization of greenway issues and development of new facilities. The public was also encouraged to visit the Greenways web site to access additional information on the Greenway system and the planning process and to convey any additional information or comments to be included in the Plan. These meetings were held at the following locations: - City County Building - 200 E. Washington Street - Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee monthly meeting - A.J. Thatcher Park - Family Center - 4649 W. Vermont Street - Garfield Park - Burrello Family Center - 2450 S. Shelby Street - Riverside Park-Family Center - 2420 N. Riverside Drive - Fall Creek- Third Christian Church - 5220 E. Fall Creek Parkway N. Dr. - Broad Ripple Park-Community Building - 1500 Broad Ripple Avenue - Second Round of Greenways Plan Update Public Meetings. These meetings were conducted in October and November of 1999 at five different locations around the county. The comments and recommendations received from the public during the first round of meetings were distributed and major themes were discussed. Draft recommendations for an updated five (5) and ten (10) year implementation plan of specific actions and priorities was distributed and discussed. Again, members of Indy Parks Greenways, the Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee, Indy Parks Park Planning and the Greenway planning consultant were stationed at several comment boards to take suggestions and comments from the public and answer questions. Additional comments were then summarized at the conclusion of the meetings. These meetings were conducted at the following locations: - A.J. Thatcher Park - Family Center - 4649 W. Vermont Street - Garfield Park - Conservatory - 2450 S. Shelby Street - Riverside Park - Family Center - 2420 N. Riverside Drive - Fall Creek - Third Christian Church - 5220 E. Fall Creek Parkway N. Drive - Broad Ripple Park - Community Building - 1500 Broad Ripple Avenue A monthly report has been given on progress in finalizing the master plan at Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee meetings, which are held on the third Tuesday of each month. Public participation in these meetings is encouraged. These meetings are televised. The Greenways website, www.indygreenways.org, supported by the Greenways Foundation was used extensively to collect public input. Several draft versions of the plan have been posted on the site and distributed for public review. The final version of the plan was posted on the website for a month long review period. Greenways also invited the public to make comments through the Indianapolis Star's Friday Forum. During the public planning process, which took place during the summer and fall of 1999, a number of issues and priorities emerged from the public comments received and the participant survey distributed. Identified needs from these meetings and surveys can be summarized into five (5) categories: 1. Expansion-There is an increasing demand for development of a complete system that links the entire county, which will include the development of new trail opportunities or extension and improvement of existing trails. 2. Linkage- The public desires more trail linkages from neighborhoods to various community facilities such as schools, parks and churches. These linkages may include alternatives to off road trail systems, such as on road bike routes. The need for linkages between trails and the need for "trail loops" was also noted. 3. Support-Plan for and acquire funding for future development and retain and expand resources for adequate long-term maintenance. 4. Stewardship-Preserve natural and cultural resources, expand interpretive and educational experiences, and acquire significant corridors suitable for greenway designation. 5. Partnerships-Seek partners for improvement projects, development funds, program sponsorships, stewardship activities and educational experiences. Expansion The 14 greenway and conservation corridors contemplated in both the 1994 and 2002 IndianapolisGreenway Master Plan do not fully satisfy all the needs and demands of Marion County citizens. In public meetings held in 1999, the "gaps" in the 1994 14 corridors were noted: - The southern and southeastern portions of Marion County lack the watercourses, canals or historic rail corridors that are the potential greenways in other parts of the county. - Although the Central Canal, Eagle Creek, Fall Creek, Monon and White River corridors provide significant north-south greenway capacity, ever greater distances separate them as they go north. This has led to public requests for east-west greenway connections to link all of Marion County. - Dense residential and commercial development, such as along the Michigan Road (northwest) and Allisonville Road (northeast) corridors, have given rise to the public demand for non-motorized transportation corridors convenient to these developments. Advocacy groups for alternative transportation and neighborhood associations in these areas have arisen spontaneously and urged inclusion of their corridors in our umbrella plan. The significance of these and other examples from the public record is the necessity of keeping the Indianapolis Greenway Master Plan 2002 adaptable and flexible. The intense popularity of the greenway projects opened prior to 2002 has had the effect of stimulating demand for more greenway facilities in the under served areas of the county. Through the growth of the population in the region and the intense pressure of urban development, citizens are eager to have green space and open space near to home. In addition, surveys of users of existing Indy Greenways reveal that as many as one-fourth of trail users come from across the county ­and from adjacent counties-and these more distant users apparently liked what they saw enough to lobby for greenways closer to where they live. Accordingly, the Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan 2002 should be open to amendment during the five-year intervals between updates. The logical entity to review and adopt such expansions is the Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee, which could make recommendations for such extensions to be formally adopted by the Park Board, Metropolitan Development Commission and the City-County Council. Where might these new greenway opportunities arise, given that we're unlikely to create any new rivers, streams or canals? - Newly inactive rail corridors - Former rail corridors, such as the east west Penn Central line - Utility corridors, such as dedicated corridors for high-tension electrical transmission lines, utility towers, gas lines, buried pipelines, and water/sewer sanitary easements. - Major upgrades to existing roadways, which might integrate non-motorized components such as bicycle paths, bicycle lanes, or pedestrian sidewalks as part of a revised Marion County Bicycle Route system. - Major public works, such as storm water interceptors, flood control and levee construction. - Partnership with IndyGo to link public transportation options with greenways - Planned greenways within newly developed residential, commercial or park areas accomplished through zoning commitments or subarea planning. - Tributaries like Little Buck Creek, Little Eagle Creek and Lick Creek which were included in both the 1929 Sheridan Plan and 1982 Indianapolis Parkway System. Under-utilized streams like Falcon Creek, which is part of the Lafayette Square Area Plan (1999 DMD Comprehensive Planning) and Brookside Creek, which connects into the Pogues Run Greenway. - Brownfields and areas not used due to environmental constraints. - Other State, Federal or City owned properties. - Other surplus land not suitable for construction. - Alleys and old roadways Any or all of these opportunities might permit the Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan to be expanded to more fully satisfy the public's demand for greenways. The popularity of the completed Greenways trails through year 2000 provides justification for expansion. These are the: - Monon Rail Trail - Fall Creek Greenway Trail - Pleasant Run Greenway Trail - Pogues Run Greenway Trail - Central Canal Greenway Trail - White River Central Greenway Trail A common theme was heard repeatedly during the public planning process. The public desires trails to be completed on the original 14-corridor greenway system and they want them as soon as possible. Substantial support was identified for trail development along the southern portion of the Monon Rail Trail, trail development along the Eagle Creek Greenway corridor and completion of the Fall Creek Greenway from downtown Indianapolis to Fort Harrison State Park. A strong advocacy for the development of the B & O Rail Corridor was also expressed. Many suggestions were also received for specific improvements to existing trails that would make those trails more safe or user friendly, namely drinking fountains, benches, bike racks, emergency call boxes or pay phones, directional signage, restrooms, lighting and safer street crossings. A need to minimize user conflicts was also identified; primarily the need for some speed control of bicycles and rollerblades on crowded trails and the danger of long lead dog leashes being used on trails. Illegal motorized traffic on some trails is also a safety issue. Keeping the existing trails safe and attractive to users should be a priority. In effect, this means that Indy Greenways needs to create a two-pronged approach to development with one effort focused on new development and a dual effort aimed at improvements to and maintenance of existing trails. Priorities should be established based on need, community support and feasibility. Development of plans outlining the scope of improvements and the preliminary budget needed for each specific project should then occur. This will allow the Greenways staff to target funding sources or partnership opportunities most applicable for each desired improvement. Addressing these demands will require focusing on creative financing, maintaining existing funding sources, exploring new funding sources, encouraging inter-governmental cooperation and developing sustainable partnerships. A C.H.O.I.C.E. has emerged for development and exploration. - Conservation, pursuing legislation to protect environmentally sensitive areas for urban conservation - Health, protecting the quality of land, water and air as well as human health through recreation, fitness, alternative transportation and environmentally sensitive development - Opportunity, seeking partnerships with public and private organizations - Innovation, continuing to seek and practice creative financing, business re-engineering, state- of-the-art Geographic Information System and environmentally sensitive engineering techniques - Community, integrating our greenways system with Indianapolis neighborhoods, and re- discovering the sense of community - Ecology, building our city with nature, nature is not to be conquered Linkage Creating easier access to greenway trails and better connections to parks, neighborhoods and community facilities is a growing demand for greenway users and the public in general. Alternative transportation issues especially are important for citizens living in the urban core of the city. Many in this area may not have the ability to access traditional modes of transportation to jobs, shopping and recreation. Creating better access to these activities via alternative transportation makes much sense in a city striving to maintain a thriving economy and encourage economic growth and development. A major step in addressing the linkage issue is identifying the locations of the many facilities, institutions and providers that exist within Marion County. The Indy Parks 1999 "Pathways to the Future" plan includes maps of the "Living Links" within each township. Park planners are currently in the process of developing strategies to connect these links with parks and greenway trails on a township by township basis. Links identified within the "Pathways to the Future" plan include such things as churches, shopping areas, educational facilities, recreation providers, hospitals, historic sites and landmarks. While greenway trails can provide access to some of these destinations it will take a combination of many different approaches to achieve a community fully linked through alternative transportation methods. One strategy underway is the development of an updated bike route plan for Marion County that will identify streets appropriate for bike routes and recommend improvements to the bike route system. Bike route connections to parks and greenway trails will be an important component within this plan. Coordinating with the local public transportation system is another way of linking greenway trail users to the wider community. Installing bike racks on the public bus system is a new idea being implemented gradually. As more of the greenway trails are developed on the original 14 corridor greenway system more connections between trails will occur creating more loops within the system. Prime examples of this will occur when the Fall Creek Greenway Trail is completed to link with the Central White River Greenway Trail. This section will create a loop connecting to the north with the Central Canal Trail and the Monon Trail; and to the south with the White River Promenade and the White River State Park. Another major trail loop will occur when development of trails along Eagle Creek, White River (south of downtown) and Pleasant Run are completed. These three major trail systems will all come together near Raymond Street and White River and will have the potential of creating huge loops for trail users. A staggering number of major destinations will be accessible through these loop trail connections. As development of the greenway system approaches the borders of Marion County it will become even more essential to develop plans for linking with trail systems beyond the borders of Indianapolis and in establishing communication with city, county or township officials responsible for developing those trails. A good model to follow is the relationship between the City of Carmel and Indy Greenways as the development of the Monon Trail evolves. In addition to the Monon Trail, the White River Corridor, the B&O Rail Corridor, the Eagle Creek Corridor, the White Lick Creek Corridor, the Crooked Creek Corridor and the Buck Creek Corridor all have the potential for cross border linkages. A major undertaking by the Metropolitan Planning Office was the completion of the Indianapolis Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian System Plan. The geographic area included within the study area encompasses all of Marion County and portions of Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Johnson and Hendricks Counties. The impetus for the study originates from the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA) which placed new emphasis on alternative transportation, specifically bicycle and pedestrian modes. The goals and objectives guiding the overall direction of the project are: - Support the goals of the National Bicycling & Walking Study to double the number of trips now taken by bicycle and walking and to reduce the number of motor vehicle accidents involving bicycles and pedestrians by 10% and to support the goals of ISTEA by providing alternatives to motor vehicle travel. - Allow for incremental implementation, building on existing or planned facilities; and - Provide a strong regional framework supporting the development and expansion of local systems. The intent of this study is to identify the location of a regional framework of bicycle and pedestrian facilities and to establish standards for facility design. Many corridors of the Indianapolis Greenways system are included in this framework and play a key role in providing the linkages necessary throughout the region. Recommendations from this planning process should help in identifying areas of priority for implementation by Indy Greenways and others. Support This category involves the funding sources and maintenance needed to implement and sustain the Greenway system. Funding Sources The most important funding source for Indy Greenway projects since 1993 has been federal transportation enhancement (TE) funds, available under the ISTEA statute and its successor the TEA-21 (Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century). TE funds are administered through the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), and total approximately $16 million annually for all Indiana projects. In addition to TE, other sections of TEA-21 may also be used to fund pedestrian and bikeway expenditures, including CMAQ (Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality Program) STP (Surface Transportation Program) and others. Other smaller federal and state grant programs can, and have already, helped fund Indy Greenways projects. These include Soil & Water Conservation Funds, Indiana Heritage Trust, Hometown Indiana grants, Build Indiana Fund, Americorps, the Conservation Area Reinvestment Act and others. Non-profit foundations have been important financial supporters of Indy Greenways, particularly the Lilly Endowment. Previous supporters should be approached for additional grants and existing efforts continued to interest foundations which haven't previously supported greenway projects. Corporate contributions, individual contributions and bequests have arguably been underutilized in past funding of Indy Greenway projects. In cooperation with the White River Greenway Foundation, Inc. (WRGFI), Indy Parks Greenways is undertaking a fundraising campaign to appeal to these under represented constituencies. Known by its acronym "PATH" (Partnerships & Action for Trails and Habitat), this campaign began in the year 2000 and should continue indefinitely. Although local tax moneys have never been the major source of the funding to develop the Indy Greenway System, they have played a key catalytic role. Many of the external grants previously mentioned require 20% to 50% "matching" funds-which has primarily come from local tax revenue. Given that Indy's greenways are on properties under mixed jurisdiction (DPW, DCAM, DMD and DPR), using municipal staff and budgets to coordinate greenway maintenance and capital improvements have proven to be the most efficient course. Local budgets also provide for the small professional staff to manage Indy Greenways. The following table identifies some of the federal and state grants available: Table Showing Federal and State Grants Available Federal Grant Opportunities Type of Fund Administere d By Activities Funded Issues Transportation Enhancement Activities (TEA-21) INDOT, FHWA Engineering, Construction & Land Acquisition 80/20 match. For non-vehicular modes of travel, including bicycle and pedestrian. Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) NPS, IDNR Construction and Land Acquisition No current funding. Need current 5-year parks plan. Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program(CMAQ) FHWA, INDOT Construction and Land Acquisition 80/20 match Community Development Block Grant(CDBG) HUD, DMD Engineering, Construction and Land Acquisition Benefits low income areas within established boundaries. Federal Transit Administration (FTA) FTA Construction and Land Acquisition 90/10 match. Bicycle and pedestrians access to transit facilities. State Grant Opportunities Type of Fund Administere d By Activities Funded Issues Recreational Trails Program (RTP) IDNR, FHWA Land Acquisition and Construction 80/20 match $10k- 100k Hometown Indiana Fund IDNR Land Acquisition and Construction Local Parks and Recreation Plan Required Indiana Heritage Trust Fund Indiana Heritage Committee Land Acquisition From license plate monies. In addition, a variety of local and national endowments have the potential of being tapped for funding of Greenway projects and it is recommended that these sources be explored more fully in order to identify which projects might be most applicable to each grant source's objectives. It is recommended that proposed development projects have identified sources of funds which are applicable to the specifics of each project and that fund sources are targeted in advance of project planning. This will allow each project to be tailored to meet the requirements of fund sources and will increase the success of each grant application. Maintenance An important issue identified by the public planning participants involves the importance of providing excellent maintenance of the greenway corridors and facilities. Good maintenance of greenway facilities is essential not only for the safety of greenway users, but for the overall sense of security and well being greenway users can expect to experience. People are more comfortable using areas that appear to be cared for and in turn will respect the facilities and do their part in keeping them clean and safe. It is well documented that graffiti occurs less frequently if it is removed immediately. This is probably true for other types of vandalism as well. To address these concerns a Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Department of Public Works is currently in place to provide for maintenance of the greenway corridors. This agreement provides for a Greenways Supervisor, 2 crew leaders and 12 laborers. The following services are performed as part of this agreement: For the entire greenway system within Marion County: - Mowing according to prescribed standards for each corridor. - Removal of flood debris from trail and structures. - Stabilize, maintain and control erosion problems. - Remove illegally dumped material. - Remove and haul debris. - Install, repair and maintain fences. - Tree trimming and removal of dead trees. - Remove and manage snow and ice. - Develop and maintain planted areas. - Apply watering and fertilizing as directed. - Provide cleaning and janitorial service of public facilities within the Greenway system. - Inventory and stock supplies and material for greenway support. - Train staff and other personnel to develop and maintain the greenways system. In addition, for areas of the greenway system where a trail is operational: - Landscape designated areas. - Control weeds and invasive plants. - Trim and remove brush. - Remove graffiti. - Pick-up trash and litter. - Produce, install, maintain and repair signage. - Maintain, replace and repair trail surface. - Install, replace and maintain delineators, bollards, reflectors, striping, lights, and other warning devices. - Assist with special events, activities and programs. Each Greenway corridor maintained has a prescribed maintenance plan with a schedule for each activity on a year round basis. Stewardship Acquisition of Open Space and Natural Areas The 1999 Indy Parks "Pathways to the Future" plan has identified many stewardship strategies that relate to land acquisition for greenways as well as parks. These strategies include: - Actively pursue acquisition of open spaces and natural areas wherever possible with partnering groups and promote stewardship, development & maintenance of these areas with those same groups. - Develop and implement a methodology to coordinate use/management and acquisition of non-park open space. - Advocate, develop and implement an aggressive policy for land acquisition, land transfers, sale of surplus property and acquisition of more critical lands in expansion areas. Indy Parks should be a leader in conservation of open spaces. - Implement strategies to provide necessary resources to establish programs to acquire land for Greenway connections and parks, using land trust strategies to preserve corridor open space for resource conservation. - Review and update criteria for land acquisition by Indy Parks. Criteria should be based on land stewardship policies, demographic needs, developed baseline standards for recreation services, compelling need and fit Indy Park's overall land policies. - Develop and maintain a prioritized list of potential property acquisitions within Marion County that fulfill the criteria developed above. - Acquire property using the prioritized list of available areas. Land Stewardship of Community Spaces Indianapolis Parks & Recreation and Indy Parks Greenways recognizes the need to manage natural areas using the newest and best approaches in the field of park and recreation management. The Land Stewardship Section of Indianapolis Parks & Recreation assists in protecting the natural assets of Indianapolis Parks and Greenways for people and wildlife. Land Stewardship works in accordance with Indy Parks Land Stewardship Policy and in cooperation with interested citizens, government agencies, conservation groups and universities. The Land Stewardship Team coordinates projects that help to restore and protect Indianapolis Parks and Greenways to provide a suitable space for recreation and wildlife habitat. With Land Stewardship's help Indianapolis's Greenways can be maintained and enhanced so that public and natural area will be a sustainable resource for people and wildlife. Activities of the Land Stewardship Section include: - Reforestation of riparian corridors - Wetland rehabilitation and restoration - Native plant landscaping - Restorative management of high quality wooded parcels - Floral and Sensitive site inventory - Invasive exotic plant species control - Plan review consultation for capital improvement projects and maintenance operations - Educational support through written articles, brochures and various land stewardship volunteer programs Protection of Environmental Resources Greenways provide a tremendous opportunity to preserve remnant forests and city trees. By reserving edge areas surrounding existing neighborhoods, proposed developments, and riparian corridors throughout Marion County the greenway system contributes greatly to aesthetics, air and water quality, wildlife habitat, and temperature control. The development of new subdivisions and office parks provide opportunities for conservation of both greenway corridors and forest/tree resources. It is very common for these developments to include edge areas along old fencerows and in woodlots. A 1998 study by IUPUI CEES (Center for the Earth and Environmental Science, Indiana University Purdue University at Indianapolis) found that Marion County's current forest canopy cover is 25%. This includes 14% dense canopy and 11% light to medium canopy. Of the 14% dense forest, 8% is included in 2 areas-around Eagle Creek Reservoir and Geist Reservoir. Various studies have shown that livable cities in our region should strive for >40% canopy cover. This amount of cover is adequate for cleaning the air and water, cooling homes and generally enhancing the quality of life. Greenways contribute to the existing canopy layer and can conserve other areas through land acquisition, conservation/recreation easements, public involvement, and installation of more trees. The lack of canopy cover in certain areas of Marion County is critical. Currently Center Township has only 8.8% total canopy cover, which is the lowest of all townships. By striving to maintain, protect and enhance greenway vegetation (especially trees), the greenway system can be a catalyst for reforestation or afforestation of this heavily urbanized area. A modest goal of 15% canopy cover in Center Township would have a significant effect. An aggressive campaign to preserve existing greenway trees, perform necessary maintenance to these trees, and begin to replace degraded or invasive species with vigorous long-lived species should be adopted. Properly maintained trees have healthier crowns and do a better job of cleaning pollutants from the air, slowing rainfall (and consequently storm water runoff) and providing superior shade. A study of the existing resources and recommended actions should be pursued. Environmental Education and Interpretive Programming In the 1999 Indy Parks "Pathways to the Future" plan environmental education and interpretive programming were identified as an integral part of the Indy Parks mission, and identifying and developing the educational potential of the greenway system is an important component of that plan. The properties that make up the current Greenway system include a wide variety of wildlife habitats and examples of varied ecosystems. Partnering with school groups is an excellent way to expose children to this learning experience. Greenways are linear, self-guided interpretive tours using descriptive signs or brochures and represent another way of communicating not only the environmental attributes of an area but also historical or cultural features of significance. Some initiatives to enhance environmental and interpretive programming include: - Include greenway corridors in the development of the Indy Parks Environmental Education/Interpretation master plan. - Identify and develop the educational potential of the greenways system. - Develop a strategy to utilize self-guiding, non-personal techniques to interpret Greenway resources and features where personal contact is unavailable or impractical. - Actively partner with schools near a greenway corridor to promote using the greenway as a site for environmental education. - Partner with high schools, colleges and universities to provide research and program opportunities to further develop their students' cultural and natural science proficiencies. - Identify and implement environmentally sound management practices throughout the greenway system. - Coordinate all agencies and organizations providing environmental education and interpretive services in Marion County. Partnerships Partnering has become a sustaining tool in the advancement of greenway projects by sharing resources to accomplish common goals. Partnerships are actively sought in many cases through contact with interested groups, neighbors and stakeholders. Other partnerships evolve out of the desire for specific improvements or amenities on particular greenways that go beyond the core services provided. Whether the partnerships are sought or come to Greenways voluntarily the results are similar in that advocacy for greenways is enhanced, outside funds, materials or labor are leveraged to accomplish projects and an atmosphere of cooperation is created. Partnering is contagious. Successful partnering projects provide positive examples for others to follow and encourage others to participate. All partnerships are documented through a unique and detailed system of reports. Examples of the many forms of partnerships occurring within the Indianapolis Greenways system include: - Development of amenities such as drinking fountains, gazebos or park structures, interpretive signage, etc. - Trail access areas - Lease properties - Landscaping - Art projects - Clean-ups - Trail and conservation corridor clean-ups - Volunteer trail monitors - Medical service coordination - Law enforcement patrol coordination - Land /easement acquisition - Environmental education - University doctoral and masters thesis projects - Native plant restoration/introduction program - Indianapolis Trees For Tomorrow - Academic research such as visual preference study, user surveys and studies, strategic management planning, economic development evaluation, design charrettes, aquatic life studies and homebuyer study During the entire span of the first Indianapolis Greenways Plan (1994-1999), the project has employed creative financing. Only about one-fourth of the total cost of the project to date has come from local tax monies, with the remaining three-quarters coming from a variety of federal, state and foundation grants; and private citizen donations. It is important when establishing partner relationships that standards and criteria for monitoring and evaluation are employed. These standards should include benefit/cost analysis and evaluation, need analysis, accountability measures and performance evaluation. Defining and detailing the roles and resources of each partner is the first step in ensuring success. To maximize the opportunities for partnering, pre-planning should be done to identify potential partners which may include foundations, schools, faith based organizations, private institutions, the medical community, athletic organizations, civic clubs and organizations, "Friends of" organizations, advisory boards, local businesses or corporations or other groups who might share a location with a greenway or who have a mission relevant to greenway, park, recreation or community needs. Specific partnering strategies identified in the 1999 Indy Parks "Pathways to the Future" plan which relate to greenways include: - Actively partner with high schools, colleges and universities to provide research and program opportunities to further develop their student's cultural and natural science proficiencies. - Develop partnerships that encourage a sense of stewardship and a standard of care for all natural and cultural resources. - Actively pursue acquisition of open spaces and natural areas wherever possible with partnering groups and promote stewardship, development and maintenance of these areas with those same groups. - Enter into active partnerships with various foundations, organizations and advisory boards within Marion County, with a focus on recreation and parks to assist in fulfilling the Indy Parks Mission. In dealing with private and non-profit sector donors it is often convenient, and sometimes required, to have an IRS-qualified 501(c)(3) entity to receive the contributions. Such contributions can be in cash or appreciated assets such as real property or securities. Indianapolis Greenways is fortunate to have the White River Greenway Foundation, Inc. to fulfill this important role. Greenways Foundation, Inc. (aka White River Greenway Foundation, Inc.) (GFI) Established in 1991, the White River Greenway Foundation, Inc. (now the Greenways Foundation, Inc.) was created specifically to facilitate contributions, of all forms, to central Indiana greenway projects. After receiving cash and in-kind donations, the GFI can hold them until they are needed for greenway development, enhancement or operation. As a private, permanent, on-going entity, the GFI doesn't have the bureaucratic burdens of annual re- appropriation, or the cumbersome and inflexible procurement regulations, which must be followed by city-county government. Non-partisan and non-political, the GFI can focus exclusively on the needs of greenway projects on a regional basis for cross county coordination. In 1999 the GFI adopted the following mission statement: The Greenways Foundation, Inc. is an independent, not-for-profit 501 (c)(3), volunteer organization serving greenway users, governmental agencies and other providers, as well as the public in central Indiana. The Foundation is committed to improving the region's quality of life through the conservation and development of an interconnected system of greenways. Working directly and through others, the GFI promotes the conservation, development, management and use of greenways by offering grants, energizing volunteers, developing public information and education, and through the ownership and management of greenway properties. Since 1997, the GFI has also prioritized public communications about greenways. The quarterly Indy Greenways newsletters and the launch of the new Indy Greenways web site (www.indygreenways.org) were GFI initiatives. To keep the GFI's goals and objectives aligned with those of the Indy Greenways project itself, the Indy Greenways Administrator continually reports to the GFI Board and there is also an ongoing relationship between the GFI and the Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee. It is possible, if donors to the GFI do not restrict their contributions solely to Indy Parks Greenways projects, that other Central Indiana greenway projects may also receive GFI grants. However, such projects in surrounding counties (the Monon Trail extension in Hamilton County, for example) arguably enhance the worth of the Indianapolis Greenway system by connecting to it. The Greenways Foundation, Inc. also holds the license and trademark for all logos associated with the Greenways for marketing and fundraising opportunities. Indy Greenways has been very successful in securing partners and in creating exciting partnering opportunities. With the advent of this planning document and a new action plan outlining the many projects needed, it is anticipated that the number of partnerships will increase. It will be important for Indy Greenways to prepare a prioritized list of improvements and activities designated for partnering and to then solicit potential partners based on this prioritized list. Additional Issues and Greenway Activities Many other issues and activities were explored during the planning process. Some were observations of the need to continue citizen involvement in the planning and development process and the importance of communicating the greenway story to the public. Citizen Involvement Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee The Indianapolis City-County Council established the current Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee in 1995 to advise the Board of the Indianapolis Department of Parks and Recreation. The duties of the Development Committee include: - Requesting grants and in-kind support from the White River Greenways Foundation, Inc. and other support organizations for selected greenways- related projects. - Reviewing Greenways projects, guidelines and grants, and providing comments and advice to the Indianapolis Department of Parks and Recreation Board and to other appropriate agencies and organizations. - Assisting in identifying appropriate groups for adoption of segments of the Indianapolis greenways, matching appropriate adoptive groups to the interest and needs of neighborhoods and communities for stewardship of adoptive areas. - Assisting in determining and developing appropriate recreation and event usage guidelines for the Indianapolis greenways system. - Advocating and promoting the Indianapolis greenways system based upon the Indianapolis Greenways Plan. The committee consists of fifteen (15) voting members and one (1) non-voting member appointed as follows: - Five members appointed by the mayor, one of whom to be designated as vice-chairperson. - Five members appointed by the city-county council, one of whom to be designated as secretary. - Four members appointed by the Board of the Indianapolis Department of Parks and Recreation, one of whom to be designated as chairperson. - One member appointed by the director of the Indianapolis Department of Parks and Recreation to represent a not-for-profit local greenways 501-(c) (3) organization. - The director of the Indianapolis Department of Parks and Recreation or his or her designee shall be a non-voting member. Committee members serve a four-year term and must attend fifty percent (50%) of meetings to be considered for re-appointment. At least one member appointed from each appointing authority shall represent one of the fourteen (14) greenway corridors. Substantial effort should be made to maintain good communications with the IGDC and continue the successful relationship that exists between Indy Greenways management and the Committee. The IGDC is an excellent vehicle for public communication and feedback, as well as a source of citizen based advise for the many policy and implementation decisions which will confront Indy Greenways in the future. Marketing/Fundraising Strategy Projects Providing easy access to information about the Greenway system and activities occurring within the Greenway corridors is also essential. Marketing efforts are an effective way to communicate to the public. Also, a valuable new information tool is now available on the Indy Greenways web page. Keeping this information current and providing a continuous process of evaluation of marketing efforts will ensure that public information is easy to access and that the story of greenway development, activities and successes are readily available. Examples of current marketing and fundraising strategies are: - Web page development- www.indygreenways.org - Marketing and Fundraising Campaign. - Written and web based Newsletter. - Donor catalog. - Greenways calendar/paintings/postcards for sale. - Merchandise plan. - National Institute for Fitness and Sport (NIFS) Partnership Special Events Special events are designed to provide communication to the general public of new greenway facilties or activities, to recognize partners for their participation and to allow the public to actively participate in greenway improvements or programs. Examples of currently planned special events include: - Monthly Indianapolis Greenways Development Committee meetings. - Annual "Spring into Broad Ripple" 5k/10k Run/Walk. - Annual Greenways clean up. - "Moo"non to the State Fair - Groundbreaking, grand opening celebrations and formal dedications of new trail /greenway facilities. - Hosting the Indiana Greenways Conference. - "Pedaling to Penrod." - "Commute to Work Day" on the Greenways. - Hosting of National or International Rails-to Trails Conference. - IPS School 31 Walk To School Day on the Pleasant Run Greenway. Awards Applying for and receiving awards is a special way to increase public awareness of the success of the greenway program and to enhance the pride people may feel about their community assets. It is also a way to recognize valuable partners for sharing resources, time and talent. Indy Greenways has received many awards since the initiation of greenway development. A summary of the major awards include: - 2000 Grand Project Award from the Consulting Engineers of Indiana for the Beurt Servaas Bridge over Fall Creek at 10th Street with Butler, Fairman & Seufert, Inc. - 2000 National Park Service Award for Elected Officials - 2000 Mayors Community Service Award-Ray Irvin and IGDC Chairman Tom Olsen - 2000 Indiana State Trail Worker Award - 2000 Millennium Legacy Trail Award ­ State of Indiana Designee by White House Millennium Council - 1999 American Society of Landscape Architects Centennial Medallion-Indianapolis Park and Boulevard System - 1999 American Society of Landscape Architects Centennial Medallion-Monon Trail - 1999 Broad Ripple Village Association Partnership Award - 1998 Certificate of Appreciation-Mosaics along the Monon-Partnership with Indianapolis Public Schools - 1998 Addy Nominee-Collaborative Print Material-Greenways Trail User Guide - 1998 Indiana Greenways Conference-Host Appreciation Award - 1997 Special Resolution recognizing the 10th Anniversary of the Indianapolis Greenways Program by the Indianapolis City County Council - 1997 Consulting Engineers of Indiana, Engineering Excellence Merit Award for the Monon Phase I with Butler, Fairman & Seufert, Inc. - 1997 American Society of Landscape Architects, Honor Award in Recognition of Outstanding Professional Achievement for the Monon Trail with Rundell Ernstberger Associates - 1997 IPALCO Golden Eagle Grant Award - 1996 American Hiking Society & Dupont Cordura, Honorable Mention - 1996 A Monumental Affair ­ Excellence in Design and Development, Honor Award in Landscape Architecture & Project/Community Development for the Monon Trail Phase 1 - American Society of Landscape Architects-Ohio Chapter, Merit Award for the 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Plan with Woolpert Consultants - 1991 A Monumental Affair, Honor Award in Landscape Architecture for the Fall Creek Corridor The Mayor's Initiatives and the Indianapolis Greenways Plan Mayor Bart Peterson, developed a plan of initiatives to highlight his vision for the City of Indianapolis under his administration. A summary of the areas in which the Indianapolis Greenways Plan 2002 will address parks and recreation issues highlighted in these initiatives follow: 1. Inviting Youth and Families Into Our Parks The Peterson Plan As Mayor, Bart Peterson will ensure all Indianapolis children can enjoy safe outdoor activities at city parks. Bart Peterson knows that the City's parks must be about more than physical infrastructure; the parks department must make the parks places where young people, teens and families want to spend time. The parks department should offer more activities directed at teens and other children, particularly those in lower income areas. Most importantly, city children should not have to travel across town to find fun in a city park. City government must collaborate with youth and neighborhood groups, schools, faith-based groups and not-for-profit groups to make the city parks safer, more accessible and more enjoyable for local residents. The Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan 2002 The Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan 2002 will link residents of the county to recreation resources, schools, neighborhoods and businesses. Partnerships with neighborhood groups, schools, faith-based groups and not-for-profits will be explored to provide resources for development and programs. 2. Working With Neighborhoods to Improve Parks Programs and Activities The Peterson Plan Evidence exists that crime frequently drops-sometimes dramatically-when the lack of open space is remedied and recreation opportunities are improved. Yet investments in parks and open space have generally been considered a low priority. Many community groups have the resources to establish programs but they lack the facilities. The parks department has the facilities but lacks the resources for adequate programs and activities. To create innovative programs for urban parks, department staff will work with a community partnership consisting of representatives from youth and youth groups, schools, faith-based groups, neighborhood groups, not-for-profits and urban businesses. This partnership will provide input from diverse perspectives and will work with the parks department on planning, management, and protection of resources and training. Indianapolis Parks Department staff will assist neighborhood groups in ensuring that local parks and parks programs and activities are fully used, accessible, safe and responsive to the residents' needs. Indianapolis' parks and greenways have the potential to be tremendous resources for the City's schoolteachers and community groups. Indianapolis parks programs are inadequate and the programs and activities that are available are not always easily accessible. The Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan 2002 Indy Parks will actively pursue acquisition of open spaces and natural areas wherever possible and will work to create partnerships that will promote stewardship, program and facility development and maintenance of those areas. Indy Parks will implement strategies to provide the necessary resources to establish programs to acquire land for Greenway connections and parks using land trust or other strategies to preserve corridor open space for resource conservation. Land acquisitions shall be targeted through criteria based on established policies used to prioritize locations. Additional effort will be made to increase environmental education program opportunities on the Greenways by developing partnerships with local schools and environmental groups. Indy Parks will continue to develop plans for Living Links, which will identify various ways of accessing parks and community facilities. 3. Bart Peterson's Youth Agenda-Valuing Our Youth And Their Contributions To Our City The Peterson Plan Improve the public transportation system to give young people greater access to after-school and summer programs. Support and invest in Indianapolis's cultural resources and activities. Involvement in the arts provides youth with the ability to express themselves and the opportunity to develop life-long skills such as self-discipline and teamwork. Collaborate with the Youth Council to create parks programs and activities to attract young people. Local parks can be important centers of neighborhood pride and unity. Especially in older parks in the city core, we must provide greater program access and opportunities for youth and families. Parks department decisions must reflect the needs and desires of area residents. The Indianapolis Greenways Master Plan 2002 The update of the Greenways Plan includes exploring the many ways that, through Greenways or other means; neighborhood residents can be connected to parks, schools, businesses and cultural attractions. Incorporating Other Planning Efforts The issue of coordinating with many planning efforts, either completed or in progress, was mentioned in many different contexts during the Greenways public planning process. In some cases the importance of greenway concerns being included in the planning process of other transportation or neighborhood/community wide planning efforts was the focus. In other cases the connection of greenway corridors to community points of interest was emphasized. It was also frequently noted how important communication and cooperation between planning or implementing agencies is in getting the most for the limited tax dollars available. Examples of this include such projects as road or bridge improvements, which if planned together, could allow for better pedestrian and bicycle usage. Included in the appendix are references to planning documents that relate in some way to the greenway system and should be included in future planning of greenway projects. These plans include, but are not limited to: - Michigan Road Corridor Study - Crooked Creek Community Council Plan - Ellenberger Master Plan 2000 - Northwestway Park Master Plan 2000 - Marion County Bicycle Route System - Indy Go Bus Route System SECTION 3 THE GREENWAY CORRIDORS This section includes individual maps and descriptions for each original greenway corridor and several additional corridors added through the Master Plan Update process. Each map indicates current trail, proposed trail, amenities, destinations and connections, as well as additional information helpful to planning efforts. The descriptions for each corridor give a general overview to the greenway and summarize the community vision for management of the corridor. Recommendations for management of each corridor are broken down into objectives for five- year periods, starting in 2001 and projecting to 2012. At present a total of sixty-five miles of interconnected greenway trails exist within Indianapolis/Marion County, and an additional forty- five miles of greenway trails are either being constructed or planned. An estimated two million users access the Indianapolis greenway trails annually. OVERVIEW Now an inactive rail line, the B&O Rail Corridor extends 7.1 miles from the Marion County/Hendricks County line east to the intersection of Michigan Street and Concord Street. The corridor then joins an active Conrail line. The eastern two-thirds of this corridor are completely developed with moderate-density residential and industrial land uses. The western third of the corridor is rapidly developing as a residential area. Major community facilities along the corridor include Ben Davis High School, the Indiana Girls School, the Country Club of Indianapolis, Leonard Park in Speedway, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The B&O Rail Corridor is easily accessible from several thoroughfares, such as Country Club Road, Girls School Road, Lynhurst Drive, and West 10th Street. Public input and adjacent landowner concerns will be important issues in the future planning of the B&O Rail Corridor. The updating of the Indianapolis Greenway Master Plan found enthusiastic support for the development of this corridor into a greenway trail. The potential linkages through development of a trail were of utmost concern and include Eagle Creek Greenway and Eagle Creek Park, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, various schools and recreation facilities along the corridor, connection to Downtown and connection to Hendricks County and western Indiana. Other ideas raised were the possibility of using trailheads for bike parking with access to IMS shuttles or as a remote park and ride location in coordination with the IndyGo bus routes and bike racks on buses program. MASTER PLAN UPDATE RECOMMENDATIONS 2001 to 2006 1. Research property ownerships and proceed into land acquisition phase. 2. Assist in preparation and implementation of a community access plan to identify bike routes and alternative means of access from neighborhoods to community facilities and greenways. 3. Work with adjacent counties to monitor trail development and potential for connections. 2007 to 2012 1. Develop a comprehensive planning report for trail development of the corridor. 2. Develop a pilot trail project on a section of the corridor. 3. Continue to work with adjacent counties on trail progress and linkages. OVERVIEW The Buck Creek corridor is over 11.55 miles long. Flowing through both Warren and Franklin townships, Buck Creek enters Marion County from Hancock County near Cumberland and exits into Johnson County. South Of U.S. 52, Buck Creek is joined by Grassy Creek. Of all the potential greenway corridors, the Buck Creek corridor is the most rural in character, particularly in Franklin Township. Land uses found in the area are agriculture, vacant or undeveloped land, and low-density residential. Both Southeastway Park and Paul Ruster Park are located along this corridor. Access to the Buck Creek corridor is available at bridge crossings on major thoroughfares such as U.S. 52, Troy Avenue, and Thompson Road. No activity has occurred within this greenway corridor since the inception of the Greenway Master Plan. During the public input process of the Greenways Master Plan Update, public interest was expressed for safe accessible routes to parks, schools, the library and various neighborhoods in Franklin Township. Trails within Southeastway and Paul Ruster Parks were also suggested. Private landowner concerns will be a major issue in developing trails along the Buck Creek Corridor, but as development of this primarily rural area increases, the difficulty in developing greenway corridors also will increase. MASTER PLAN UPDATE RECOMMENDATIONS 2001 to 2006 1. Assist in preparation and implementation of a community access plan to identify bike routes and alternative means of access from neighborhoods to community facilities and greenways. 2. Work with Indy Parks Planning to develop multi-use trails within Southeastway and Paul Ruster Parks. 3. Work with developers of new neighborhoods to acquire easements along the Buck Creek Corridor and to provide access points to the greenway. 2007-2012 1. Begin identifying property ownership within the Buck Creek corridor and prepare a comprehensive project report for greenway development. Implement phases as feasible. CENTRAL CANAL TOWPATH OVERVIEW In the 1830's the Central Canal was envisioned as part of an eight-canal system to cross the state and link major points of commerce. After three years of construction and the introduction of railroads, debts halted the project, leaving the Central Canal with no connections to other navigable waterways. In 1881 the Indianapolis Water Company purchased the canal. The Central Canal is a primary source of drinking water for the Indianapolis metropolitan area and receives its water from the White River in the Broad Ripple area. An 8.2-mile segment of the historic canal towpath was studied as part of the 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Plan. This segment begins at its source, the White River in Broad Ripple, and ends at the I-65 interchange. The canal area south of the I-65 interchange in downtown Indianapolis is part of the "Canal Walk" which extends into White River State Park and terminates at White River. This area is a beautifully developed urban promenade with landscaped walkways on either side and connections to businesses, housing and major institutions. The beautification and rehabilitation of the canal in the downtown area are responsible for the successful redevelopment efforts that have occurred in that area in recent years. The 8.2-mile segment included in the 1994 Indianapolis Greenways Plan was envisioned as a greenway trail, primarily for pedestrian use, with a focus on pedestrian safety and access to various attractions along the corridor. Since 1994, much of the corridor has been developed with these uses in mind. Phase 1 of the Central Canal Towpath was developed in 1996 and included the section of trail between 30th Street and 52nd Street. This portion of the trail is adjacent to the Indianapolis Museum of Art and Butler University. To accommodate the high percentage of joggers on this trail the surface is constructed of compacted crushed limestone, a more resilient surface than asphalt. Crossing Michigan road has been accomplished by the construction of a boardwalk passing under the Michigan Road Bridge. Phase 2 construction began in 1997 and included the greenway trail from 52nd Street to College Avenue in Broad Ripple Village. This section of trail is also constructed of crushed limestone. A renovated historic bridge has been converted for pedestrian use and has been placed alongside the Illinois Street Bridge to facilitate safer crossings in this area. The next phase of development occurred in the section of the greenway between College Avenue and the Monon Trail in the heart of Broad Ripple Village. Indy Greenways and the Broad Ripple Village Association have worked together to begin development of an urban pedestrian plaza near the location of the former parking deck over the Canal. Connection to the greenway trail across the canal is now provided by a new scenic pedestrian bridge, which spans the canal adjacent to the College Avenue Bridge. Walkways on the north side of the canal have been built and now connect to the Monon trail. Walkways on the south side of the canal are planned along with terraced and landscaped canal banks and additional pedestrian crossings and bridge improvements. The removal of the parking deck over the canal in Broad Ripple has provided an opportunity to create a unique pedestrian environment and a crucial link between the north and south sides of the canal which is expected to create a more unified village experience. Additional parking spaces have been allocated in nearby locations to offset those formerly on the deck. The Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA) owns the property between the White River and the canal just west of the museum grounds. This property contains a man-made lake and many unimproved nature trails. Development of this property into an Art and Nature Park is currently being designed by the IMA in partnership with Indy Parks Greenways. The IMA has commissioned a design firm experienced in Art and Nature Park development to design this amenity. To provide access to this area and the towpath from IMA's main grounds, an historic bowstring bridge from Montgomery County was restored and relocated through the combined efforts of the IMA, Indiana Historic Landmarks Foundation, and Indy Parks Greenways. MASTER PLAN UPDATE RECOMMENDATIONS 2001 to 2006 1. Make crossing improvements at the connection to the White River Greenway Trail. 2. Work with the Broad Ripple Village Association to complete the vision plan for the canal between College Avenue and the Monon Trail. 3. Work with the Indianapolis Museum of Art in the development of the Art and Nature Park. 4. Continue to provide existing trail upgrades (include widening the space between existing light blue Indianapolis Water Company maintenance bollards to provide access to strollers and bicyclists with trailers) 5. Assist in preparation and implementation of a community access plan to identify bike routes and alternative means of access from neighborhoods to community facilities and greenways. 6. Coordinate a connection with the downtown Canal Walk to link it to the overall greenway system. 2007 to 2012 1. Continue to provide existing trail upgrades. 2. Study the segment of the canal from 30th Street to the I-65 interchange to determine feasibility of greenway development. OVERVIEW The Crooked Creek corridor is located in the northwest portion of Indianapolis in an area that is characterized by a mixture of commercial, office and residential developments. Although this part of Indianapolis is relatively mature in its development, there are several areas where new commercial development is planned or already under construction. The corridor begins just south of I-465 in a business park and ends where the creek joins with the White River at Lake Sullivan, just south of 38th Street. The upper reaches of the Crooked Creek corridor flow by public facilities such as Wish Park, Crooked Creek Elementary School, The Humane Society, Juan Solomon Park and Fox Hill Manor Park; and all these facilities can provide direct access to the northern two-thirds of the greenway corridor. Additional access is possible from several streets, including 86th Street, 64th Street and Kessler Boulevard. The southern third of Crooked Creek flows primarily through moderate-to-low-density residential areas until the creek passes under 38th Street. The character of the surrounding land uses changers south of 38th Street as the creek flows by two private educational institutions-Marian College and the Tudor Hall School. The creek ends at Riverside Park, which includes the Major Taylor Velodrome, Riverside Golf Academy and Lake Sullivan. Trail development within this corridor has occurred only at Juan Solomon/Crooked Creek Community Park. During the public input process of the Greenways Master Plan Update, community interest was expressed in using the old interurban line as a greenway corridor connecting the Crooked Creek neighborhoods to the Central Canal Towpath Greenway trail and the Indianapolis Museum of Art. This concept is included in the 1994 greenway corridor plan for Crooked Creek. Another idea involves using the old Toll House on Michigan Road as the location for a trailhead. Support for using 56th Street as an east-west on-road trail connector was also expressed. The Crooked Creek Community Council (C-4) has developed a plan for pedestrian/bicycle linkages throughout the community (see Appendix). The Pike Township Connectivity Plan also includes linkage to the corridor (see Appendix). MASTER PLAN UPDATE RECOMMENDATIONS 2001 to 2006 1. Prepare a comprehensive project report for greenway development and include the investigation of the potential of using the former interurban line as a greenway and incorporate a trailhead between the Central Canal Towpath Greenway trail and 56th Street. 2. Coordinate and implement as part of the Pike and Washington Township Connectivity plans to ensure east-west and north-south continuity. 3. Continue to support efforts to extend Greenways trails north from the Central Canal Towpath Greenway trail at the Indianapolis Museum of Art to 56th Street. 2007 to 2012 1. Assist in preparation and implementation of a project report to identify bike routes and alternative means of access from neighborhoods to community facilities and greenways. 2. Develop a conservation management plan. 3. Build upon township connectivity plan to establish a regional trail connectivity plan. OVERVIEW The 22.4-mile Eagle Creek corridor is located in the northwest portion of Marion County. The creek enters Marion County from Boone County and flows into the White River just south of downtown Indianapolis. Included in the Eagle Creek study area are the portions of the creek above and below Eagle Creek Park. The area within Eagle Creek Park is not included as part of this study since a Master Plan for Eagle Creek Park is already in place. The dissimilarity between the land use and development patterns found in the two portions of the corridor is striking. The northern segment above Eagle Creek Park is essentially rural in character. Land uses found in the area are low-density residential, agriculture, and open space. The southern portion is more densely developed, with large residential developments, commercial areas, and a heavily industrialized district near the confluence with the White River. Numerous parks and recreational facilities lie within the Eagle Creek corridor. Although not part of the study area, the 4,500-acre Eagle Creek Park offers linkage opportunities to other parks in Indianapolis and Speedway, including Thatcher Park and Golf Course, Eagle Highlands Neighborhood Park, and Ridenour Park. Excellent access to the Eagle Creek corridor is afforded by the existing street network and levee system along the creek. Since the corridor is crossed by I-65, I-74, and I- 465, the corridor is accessible to the entire region. As with the B&O Rail corridor, portions of the Eagle Creek corridor lie within the town of Speedway. A comprehensive project development report for the entire Eagle Creek Greenway was completed in early 2000. The Eagle Creek Alignment report outlines the proposed trail routes and phases of construction as well as recommended design standards for the entire Eagle Creek Greenway. This report will be instrumental in obtaining funding for the future development of the trail. The goal established by this planning document is to connect the large recreational resource of Eagle Creek Park to neighborhoods and other parks and destinations along the way. About 70,000 people reside within one mile of the Eagle Creek Greenway. By creating proximity to and connectivity with open space resources, this large population base of the west side will realize relief from urbanization, gain nearby access to recreation, achieve a connection to natural systems, and be provided with safe alternative transportation modes. Phase 1 of this plan will include development of the trail from 56th Street and Eagle Creek Park to Dandy Trail just north of 38th Street. The initial section of trail built will be located along the east side of Reed Road from 56th St. to 46th Street. From there it will be located along Dandy Trail with overlooks of the reservoir planned. Additional sections of development await funding opportunities. During the Greenways Master Plan public input process, much interest was expressed in making connections to various facilities and locations along the Eagle Creek Greenway. Connections to the overall Pike Connectivity Plan, future B&O Greenway, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway were emphasized. Desire for a loop trail around Eagle Creek Park and identifying a location for mountain biking was also expressed. Connection to Lafayette Road via 34th Street was also mentioned as a possibility for future linkages. MASTER PLAN UPDATE RECOMMENDATIONS 2001 to 2006 1. Complete Section1 of the Eagle Creek Greenway Trail according to the comprehensive project development report. 2. Identify funding for the remaining sections of geenway trail development. 3. Assist in the preparation of a community access plan to identify bike routes and alternative means of access from neighborhoods to community facilities and greenways. 2007 to 2012 1. Continue to implement greenway trail development and provide upgrades to existing trail. 2. Continue to examine opportunities to further connect the community through trails north of Eagle Creek Park and links to the Pike Connectivity Plan. OVERVIEW Created by George Kessler, the historic Fall Creek Parkway, also known as the Fall Creek corridor, is located in the northeastern quadrant of Marion County and is the second largest corridor being studied (after White River). The corridor begins at the Geist Reservoir dam and ends by joining the White River north of downtown Indianapolis at 10th Street. The character of Fall Creek varies greatly between the areas west and east of I-465. Land uses surrounding the corridor west of I-465 are primarily residential with major commercial activities along main roadways; open space and residential uses predominate east of the expressway. In addition, two important sites-Fort Benjamin Harrison State Park and the Indiana State Fairgrounds are adjacent to this corridor. Fall Creek is well known in Indianapolis for its recreational and natural resources. The importance of this corridor was established early on with the development of Fall Creek Parkway, which parallels a majority of the corridor length. Pristine forested areas exist along the creek outside the I-465 loop and have been identified as "unique resource areas" by Indy Parks. A variety of wildlife species inhabit the Fall Creek area and use the corridor as a nesting area and migration stopover. In addition, canoeists, hikers, bicyclists, wildlife observers, and anglers use the creek's resources. In May of 1999 Fall Creek Corridor Comprehensive Project Report for the entire Fall Creek Greenway was completed. This detailed report identified suggested trail routes, design issues and trail construction phasing costs. The historical development of Fall Creek Parkway and Greenway and the role of the renowned landscape architect George Kessler are also highlighted. This report provides the framework by which Indy Parks Greenways will seek funding opportunities for development of the greenway. Phase 1 of development began in 1998 with the award of $1.2 million in Transportation Enhancement (TE) Funds. This phase of development will start construction in 2002 and will include the section of greenway from the Monon Trail to the existing trailhead on Fall Creek Parkway (just east of Keystone Ave.). Major trailheads will be located at the Monon Trail connection, 39th Street (the access area to the Indiana State Fairgrounds), and at an overlook just west of Keystone Avenue. Bridge improvements will be made on the 38th Street bridge to accommodate trail uses along the south side of the bridge and a new pedestrian bridge spanning Fall Creek will be constructed just east of Keystone Avenue to connect to the existing parking, trail and trailhead. Major street crossings will be at the eastern end of the 38th Street Bridge and across Millersville Road. A pedestrian underpass will be utilized to cross Keystone Avenue. Phase 2,3 & 4 of the Fall Creek Greenway has been approved for additional Transportation Enhancement (TE) Funds and will include the area beginning at the existing trailhead at Fall Creek Parkway and will continue north to a connection with Fort Harrison State Park for a total length of 5.91 miles. Major features of this section include the widening of the existing trail from Fall Creek Parkway to 56th Street to 12 feet and improving the existing trail surface. Existing trailheads will be improved to match the standards of all Indy Parks Greenway trails and the boardwalk under 56th Street will be repaired. A new trail will be developed north of 56th Street with underpasses at I-465 and Shadeland Avenue. Improvements will be made to accommodate trail users on the Shafter Avenue Bridge over Fall Creek before the trail makes the connection with the trail system in Fort Harrison State Park. Phase 5 of the overall plan is a .95mile trail from the northern edge of Fort Harrison State Park at 71st Street to the 79th Street loop trail. This phase is not funded for construction at this time. Work within this section will also include a trailhead and pedestrian crossing at 71st Street. Phase 6 of the Fall Creek Greenway plan was completed in 1999 with Land and Water Conservation funding and includes a loop trail around the pond at the commercial development near 79th Street and Fall Creek Road. This section of trail was constructed for hiking and nature viewing and is constructed of compacted aggregate. A small parking access was developed along Fall Creek Road. Phases 7-9 are not currently funded. They represent the greenway phases from the south terminus at the new Beurt Servaas Bridge (a cable- stay pedestrian bridge over Fall Creek near 10th Street) to the Phase 1 section beginning at the Monon Trail. This section includes linkages to downtown Indianapolis, the White River Promenade Trail, the White River Greenway Trail and the Canal Walk. Preliminary plans for the trail include an underpass at Stadium Drive and street crossings at 16th Street, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Senate Avenue, Capitol Avenue, Illinois Street, Meridian Street, Pennsylvania Street, Talbot Street, Delaware Street, Washington Boulevard and Central Avenue. Street crossings are proposed at existing stop light locations where pedestrian activated signals can be incorporated. Trailheads are planned at College Avenue, Fall Creek and 16th Street Park and at Watkins Park. A connection to the Children's Museum is