Indianapolis, Indiana – Indianapolis’ Lt. Graham Edward Martin Park is set to receive a major transformation with a $2.8 million investment aimed at improving amenities and addressing environmental concerns. The planned enhancements, funded through the Lilly Endowment Grant and federal earmark funds, will bring new recreational facilities and infrastructure improvements to the park, which has long been a valued community space.
Before these upgrades can begin, however, the park must undergo extensive environmental remediation due to contamination discovered during federally required testing. Prior to becoming a city park in 1979, the site had a history of mining and was later filled in with materials now deemed unsuitable under modern environmental standards. Testing conducted in partnership with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) revealed the presence of metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in certain areas at levels exceeding state regulatory limits for recreational spaces. PAHs, which are found in coal, crude oil, and gas, require mitigation to ensure the park remains safe for public use.
To address these concerns, the city will implement an extensive capping process, adding a new two-foot layer of clean, tested soil across the site in compliance with IDEM policies. The remediation effort will require the transport and accumulation of large quantities of approved soil, including material from other Indy Parks construction projects like Tarkington Park. During this period, Graham Edward Martin Park will be temporarily closed to the public to allow for a safe and efficient cleanup process.
Once the remediation phase is completed and additional safety testing is conducted, the park will move forward with its long-awaited $2.8 million improvement project. The planned upgrades include a brand-new splash pad, an upgraded playground, a shelter, and enhancements to the parking lot. Additionally, a memorial plaza dedicated to Graham E. Martin will be constructed, alongside a new comfort station to enhance visitor experience.
The redevelopment project has been in the works for some time, with local officials and community members eager to see the long-term benefits it will bring. A public meeting was held on December 5, 2024, at Riverside Park, where residents were provided with details about the remediation and renovation plans. Attendees had the opportunity to view renderings of the proposed playground and splash pad and ask questions about the timeline and impact of the project.
The environmental remediation work is expected to commence soon and is projected to be completed by early 2026. Following this phase, construction on the new park amenities will begin, ushering in a new chapter for Lt. Graham Edward Martin Park.
City officials have emphasized their commitment to ensuring the park remains a safe and enjoyable space for the community while preserving its historical significance. With new recreational opportunities and modernized facilities, the upgraded park is expected to serve as a key gathering place for residents for years to come.
