Indianapolis, Indiana – Mayor Joe Hogsett, along with Indy Parks officials, proudly announced the launch of a $2.8 million renovation project at Franklin Township Community Park, a significant addition to the city’s park development efforts. This marks the third major project to kick off within the past two weeks as part of the highly anticipated “Construction Season Kickoff” hosted by Indy Parks. Funded by the Lilly Endowment Grant, the project will bring a wealth of exciting new amenities to the Southside community, including a modern playground, state-of-the-art pickleball and basketball courts, and paved walking trails.
The $80 million Lilly Endowment Grant is part of a broader $140 million investment aimed at revitalizing 42 parks across the city, making improvements to both existing facilities and adding new ones. The enhancements at Franklin Township Community Park are just the latest in a series of initiatives that aim to make parks across Indianapolis more accessible, inclusive, and fun for all residents.
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In a statement about the project, Mayor Joe Hogsett emphasized the importance of these upgrades to the Southside neighborhood. “The work happening at Franklin Township Community Park marks the beginning of additional quality-of-life improvements coming to our Southside neighborhoods,” he said. “Soon, our residents in Franklin Township will be able to play and enjoy the outdoors in a new way by taking advantage of all the amenities coming to this park.”
One of the key additions is the new pickleball courts, a move that reflects the growing popularity of the sport in Indianapolis. Pickleball, a fast-paced game combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has seen a significant surge in participation across the United States. In fact, pickleball courts are being added to multiple park projects across the city, including the Chapel Hill and Tarkington projects, which were announced just last week.
Indy Parks officials identified the need for additional pickleball courts in their 2023 Comprehensive Master Plan, recognizing the sport’s increasing demand and popularity. As a result, new facilities like those planned for Franklin Township are set to provide more opportunities for residents to engage in physical activity. For those interested in indoor pickleball programming, the city offers open gym options, providing an accessible way for everyone to get involved.
City-County Councilor Brian Mowery, who represents District 25, also expressed his enthusiasm for the improvements, noting the positive effects they will have on the community. “Investments like these ensure that Franklin Township continues to grow as a vibrant community,” said Mowery. “With new playgrounds, trails, and courts, families and residents of all ages will have more opportunities to stay active and connected. I’m excited to see these improvements in our parks take shape and the positive impact they will have on our community.”
The Franklin Township upgrades align with the city’s broader goals to enhance recreational opportunities in southern Indianapolis. According to Indy Parks’ 2023 Comprehensive Master Plan, the city’s southern three townships have been identified as a priority for park development and upgrades. This effort includes over $10 million earmarked for improvements in southside parks, land acquisition, and the development of donated land in Decatur Township.
Phyllis Boyd, the director of Indy Parks, underscored the broader significance of these projects. “The coming improvements at Franklin Township Community Park will bring new, high quality park amenities to yet another community,” Boyd stated. “Thanks to the historic investment in Indy Parks, we are meeting the growing demand for recreation and fun across the city.”
This renovation is just the beginning of many planned developments in the area. Indy Parks is also planning a community engagement session for Decatur Farms Park, which will take place on Tuesday, March 18, at 6:30 p.m. at Winding River Golf Course, 8015 Mann Road, Indianapolis. This session will offer residents an opportunity to learn more about the new land acquisition in the southwest part of the city, located at Paddock Road and W County Line Road, and share their input on potential amenities for the site. The acquisition of this land and facility, finalized in late 2023, represents another important step in expanding recreational opportunities in the region.
As these projects come to life, the city’s commitment to enhancing its park system is clear, with numerous neighborhoods set to benefit from improved spaces designed for outdoor activities, family fun, and community gatherings. With the support of the Lilly Endowment Grant and strong leadership from city officials, Indianapolis is investing in its future—ensuring that all residents have access to vibrant and well-maintained green spaces where they can gather, play, and connect with one another.
In the coming months, the ongoing improvements across the city will continue to shape a more connected, active, and engaged Indianapolis, making the city an even better place to live, work, and play.
