FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 9, 2017
Greenwood reveals plans for latest phase of downtown revitalization
Mayor’s sixth State of the City highlights financial strength, quality of life initiatives
GREENWOOD, Ind. – Greenwood Mayor Mark W. Myers says the south side is experiencing a resurgence and believes his city is ready to lead the way. Citing a healthy balance sheet and ambitious plans for continued downtown revitalization, Myers today delivered his sixth State of the City address to a crowd of nearly 300 business leaders, community advocates and Greenwood citizens. The event was hosted by the Greater Greenwood Chamber of Commerce.
The address culminated with Myers revealing plans for the city’s next phase in the effort to transform downtown Greenwood. Attendees were given the first look at a completely re-imagined Old City Park, one of the city’s most storied parks located in the heart of downtown.
Machledt Drive, the current road through Old City Park, will be replaced a promenade – designed for both pedestrians and bicyclists – providing access from Madison Ave. to Meridian Street. The causeway runs adjacent to Mrs. Curl, Greenwood’s legendary ice cream shop, which recently discussed its own expansion plans. It will also connect to the planned expansion of Pleasant Creek Trail providing a path into Craig Park and the Greenwood Amphitheater.
Myers says the project provides additional walkability, connectivity, green space and community gathering places.
“A high quality of life leads to community success and growth, attracting an educated workforce and the companies seeking to locate amongst such talent,” Myers said. “This will be a dynamic public space, providing walkability and connectivity within Greenwood’s core.”
Plans also include a new tree-lined road connecting Surina Way to Market Plaza and the replacement of a century-old sewer. Myers said the project sets the stage for transformative redevelopment of the 19-acre Greenwood Middle School property, which the city recently purchased.
“It’s not often a property of this size, in the heart of a downtown, becomes available for development,” said Myers. “The potential for these 19 acres is off the charts, and as I’ve said before, we plan to tap into every last bit.”
Additional highlights of the address include:
- Greenwood’s strong financial position and a near doubling of the city’s General Fund and Rainy Day balances to $8.62 million and $2.65 million, respectively, since Myers took office in 2011.
- Major projects completed in 2016, including a major section of Worthsville Road, the new Greenwood Community Center and a firefighter-themed play pocket.
- Business growth and expansion, such as German-based Wurth Service Supply, which is spending several million dollars to build its new North American headquarters in Greenwood; Oaken Barrel and its plan to dedicate more than $2 million revamping its building and surrounding shopping center; and Cornerstone Autism Center, which will soon open a new location into the Polk Building, former home to city offices.
- Success and continued momentum at Indy South Greenwood Airport, including record fuel sales and increasing jet traffic.
“As major cities like Indianapolis continue to drive population growth and economic development, Greenwood must compete with other communities surrounding Indy to ensure both viability and sustainability,” Myers said. “Central Indiana is evolving, and all of the pieces are in place for a south side resurgence.”
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