
January 1, 2013
Irvington Plaza Greenspace
By: Emily Wood
6200 E. WASHINGTON ST.
In 2012, the Irvington Terrace neighborhood was awarded an IPL Project GreenSpace grant from KIB for their vision of a community gathering space along the Pennsy Trail. This space is intended to raise awareness of the underused Pennsy Trail and to provide the community with a gathering space for neighborhood events. KIB worked with community representatives to determine the design of the gathering space, and to discuss ways to connect residents to this “hidden gem” in the back of the Irvington Plaza. It was determined that even Irvington residents were unaware of exactly where the new Pennsy Trail was located or how to access it! Discussions revolved around how to make the Pennsy more accessible, known and used by the surrounding residents.

IMPORTANCE OF THIS PROEJCT
This project will accomplish:
- Raised awareness of the Pennsy Trail
- Incorporating the community’s interest in connecting residents to the Pennsy Trail
- Providing a gathering space for community events
- Providing a natural play scene for children
DESIGN PROCESS
In 2013, we began construction of the unique community gathering space near the Trail, designed by the artist, engineers and landscape architects of the D.A. (Design Authority), a collaborative of professional designers interested in raising awareness in Indy on how design can be incorporated into community spaces (see design below). The design incorporates the history of the Irvington Plaza (built in the 1950’s to celebrate the age of the automobile in America), with the community’s interest in connecting residents to the Pennsy Trail and providing a gathering space for community events. Reclaimed limestone curb pieces were hauled from the City’s salvage yard and reused to create a unique seating area that also provides a natural play space for children. On October 19th, neighbors and KIB volunteers put the final touches on this unique greenspace by planting over 1,000 native perennials and trees. KIB also planted 25 native trees along the Pennsy Trail this fall near the greenspace.

WORK STATUS
This work is completed. Come check out the beautiful greenspace!
DONATE
Continued success of projects like this depends on our sponsors and individuals like you. Consider donating to Keep Indianapolis Beautiful.
Categories: AES Indiana Project Greenspace