Indy Parks breaks ground on Washington Park project

INDIANAPOLIS — Officials with Indy Parks broke ground on a new project on Thursday, renovating and updating portions of a park on the near northeast side of Indianapolis.

According to a news release from Indy Parks, the $3.5 million renovation project will be at Washington Park. This comes after officials announced that the renovations would be paid for as part of an $80 million Lilly Endowment Grant.

The park is expected to see the replacement of its central playground, as well as the addition of a new splash pad, a shelter, parking lot and event lawn, according to the release.

“The ongoing support of the Lilly Endowment means we can continue to make meaningful investments into our city’s parks,” Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said in the release. “The project at Washington Park will transform one of our largest urban parks by giving our residents more opportunities and space to play, relax, and enjoy the beauty of nature.”

The release said the park stretches more than 120 acres and includes green space, trails, an 18-home disc golf course and a mountain bike course. The land previously served as the home of the Indianapolis Zoo.

“Between the historic investment in Frederick Douglass Park, renovated basketball courts at Fall Creek and 30th, and the transformative project at Washington Park, District 8 is witnessing a generational investment in our parks,” City-County Councilor Ron Gibson said in the release. “Washington Park has always been a cornerstone of our city’s history—from its early days hosting the zoo to providing space for urban trails and basketball courts. This new project will ensure that it continues to serve our community for decades to come, enhancing the quality of life for residents and preserving the rich heritage of our beloved park.”

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