Indianapolis, Indiana – In a historic step toward honoring the legacy of two of the most influential civil rights figures, Mayor Joe Hogsett, alongside City-County Council President Vop Osili and Indy Parks Director Phyllis Boyd, officially broke ground on the highly anticipated MLK Gateway Project. The $6.8 million initiative will enhance Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park, expanding its Landmark for Peace monument, adding new walkways, landscaping, and a state-of-the-art plaza. The project will also introduce upgraded lighting and security features, ensuring a safe and engaging space for the community. Completion is expected by 2026.
“The City of Indianapolis is proud to start this project that will elevate the historic site in Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park to match its national significance and invaluable legacy,” said Mayor Hogsett. “The reimagined park and expanded Landmark for Peace monument will create an unforgettable experience for all Indy residents and visitors.”
The groundbreaking ceremony coincided with the 57th anniversary of Robert F. Kennedy’s historic speech in Indianapolis on April 4, 1968, announcing the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While many cities experienced unrest in the aftermath of King’s death, Indianapolis remained peaceful, in large part due to Kennedy’s powerful and unifying words. Tragically, Kennedy himself was assassinated just two months later, further intertwining the legacies of the two leaders.
The Landmark for Peace memorial, first dedicated in 1995 with the presence of former President Bill Clinton and members of both the Kennedy and King families, has since stood as a powerful reminder of their shared vision of justice and equality. The MLK Gateway Project will amplify this message, expanding the monument to reflect the lasting impact of these historical events.
A Commitment to Preserving History and Building Community
“Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park is more than just a public space—it is a living testament to the legacies of Dr. King and Senator Kennedy, and a reminder of the power of unity in times of division,” said City-County Council President Vop Osili. “The MLK Gateway Project will not only enhance the park’s physical landscape but also deepen its historical significance, ensuring that future generations can gather here to reflect, learn, and be inspired.”
The park’s enhancements come as part of a broader initiative to invest in public spaces across Indianapolis. In recent years, the city has committed more than $140 million to improving 42 parks, bolstered by an $80 million grant from the Lilly Endowment. This year alone, Indy Parks has broken ground on three major projects, with many more scheduled for 2025.
“The Kennedy King Memorial Initiative (KKMI) is grateful for the city’s partnership and investment in this historic park,” said State Representative and KKMI Chairman Greg Porter. “The MLK Gateway Project will uplift the park to new heights and serve as a great asset for the community on the near northside.”
A Vision for the Future
Beyond structural enhancements, the new plaza will serve as an educational hub, offering visitors insight into the civil rights movement, the contributions of Dr. King and Senator Kennedy, and the history of the park itself. Much of the existing Kennedy King Park Center’s indoor display will be incorporated into the outdoor space, making this valuable history more accessible to the public.
Construction will focus on the southern portion of the park, ensuring that most amenities remain open throughout the project. The only temporary closure will be the Landmark for Peace monument, which will be expanded as part of the initiative. Officials hope that once completed, the park will not only serve as a place for recreation but also as a space for dialogue, education, and reflection.
Indy Parks Director Phyllis Boyd emphasized the importance of this expansion, stating, “By capturing the vision that Dr. King and Senator Kennedy shared, the MLK Gateway project will further ensure that their legacy lives on for generations in our city. In the midst of a historic investment in our city’s public spaces, this project stands out as a gamechanger for one of our most historic parks.”
With construction now underway, city officials and community leaders remain committed to bringing this vision to life. The MLK Gateway Project represents more than just an investment in public infrastructure—it is a reaffirmation of Indianapolis’ dedication to honoring the past while building a stronger, more united future.
