We’re raising funds for a new Downtown Canal Play Space

The Indianapolis Parks Foundation and Downtown Indy plan to raise $850,000 by the end of this year to build a playground along the Downtown Canal Walk.

“The Parks Foundation is proud to partner with Downtown Indy to build a play space along the Canal Walk that will serve residents and visitors of our great city,” said Parks Foundation President, Lori Hazlett. “A critical part of our work includes transforming expectations about what parks can be, and this investment is a perfect example of how we can support efforts to change the conversation about creative use of public spaces.”

The Canal Play Space will be an iconic and active playground, creatively designed for people of all ages and abilities. Located near the north end of the Canal along the east side of the channel, the Canal Play Space will be easily accessible and designed to incorporate the natural topography of one of the city’s greatest assets. The Canal Play Space will address the need for more active play spaces for Downtown Indianapolis residents and visitors.

“Downtown Indy’s Velocity plan calls for activation of public spaces for use by residents and visitors,” said Downtown Indy President Sherry Seiwert. “We are excited that this investment will not only allow for additional recreation opportunities for Downtown residents and visitors, but also add an exciting, new visual element to the Canal Cultural District.”

The Parks Foundation and Downtown Indy convened a committee of stakeholders that included representatives from the City of Indianapolis, Arts Council of Indianapolis, and Downtown Canal Walk neighbors to select a design firm based on qualifications and a conceptual design presentation. Yesterday’s informational meeting and fundraising event at the Indiana Historical Society included a first look at design renderings and an opportunity for public feedback.

“On behalf of the Canal Walk neighborhood, we welcome the opportunity to continue to highlight an important asset to Indy’s Downtown,” said Brian Sullivan. “The Canal Play Space will better serve existing users, as well as offer a new, exciting point of interest for people visiting our city.”

The Parks Foundation and Downtown Indy anticipate breaking ground in spring 2016 and completion of the Canal Play Space by fall of next year.

To learn more or to make a donation, please visit www.indyparksfoundation.org