Our Research & Data
Research
For nearly 50 years, Keep Indianapolis Beautiful (KIB) has partnered with tens of thousands of volunteers to transform vacant lots, plant trees, and create community GreenSpaces across our city. But KIB’s work is about more than beauty; it directly addresses the issues that matter most to Indianapolis residents.
Public Safety: Research shows that well-maintained green spaces and community-driven art reduce violent crime. In fact, KIB GreenSpaces are linked to a measurable decrease in gun assaults through increased community presence and engagement.
Clean Air & Health: With Indianapolis ranked among the worst cities in the U.S. for particle pollution, trees play a vital role. KIB strategically plants thousands of trees in low-canopy neighborhoods, improving air quality and reducing risks of heart disease, stroke, and respiratory illness.
Climate: Trees and GreenSpaces mitigate flooding by absorbing stormwater and cool neighborhoods by countering the urban heat island effect. Our work with partners like Citizens Energy Group is already preventing millions of gallons of stormwater from overwhelming local sewers.
Children & community health: Green spaces and new soil cover reduce children’s exposure to dangerous lead and heavy metals in urban soil, cutting toxic risks in half in early studies.
Neighborhood & economy: Homes near KIB-supported GreenSpaces benefit from increased property values, and residents enjoy stronger social connections, pride, and safer neighborhoods.
Mental Wellbeing: Access to nature lowers stress, supports cognitive health, and improves academic outcomes for children. KIB projects—from tree plantings to murals—make these benefits more accessible across Indianapolis.
At its core, KIB’s work grows far beyond trees and gardens. It touches public safety, health, environment, economics, and quality of life. Together with volunteers, donors, and neighbors, we’re making Indianapolis not just beautiful, but healthier, safer, and more resilient for all.
Partners
