Indianapolis Advances Plans to Expand and Connect Citywide Greenway Network

Indianapolis is developing a new Greenways Strategic Implementation Plan to expand, connect, and modernize its trail system, aiming for over 250 miles of greenways that support sustainability, mobility, and community well-being.

1 minute read

May 19, 2025, 6:00 AM PDT

By Clement Lau


People riding bike son paved greenway in Indianapolis, Indiana.

City of Indianapolis Department of Public Works / Indy Greenways

Indianapolis is advancing a major update to its greenway system through the Greenways Strategic Implementation Plan, led by the Department of Public Works (Indy DPW). Building on the 2014 Full Circle Master Plan, the new initiative aims to improve trail connectivity, enhance sustainability, and support economic development. As reported by Hanna Rauworth, the vision includes expanding the city’s greenway network to over 250 miles, creating a more integrated and resilient urban environment for all residents.

Key components of the plan include updating zoning codes to support trail-oriented development, identifying funding strategies, standardizing maintenance protocols, and modernizing design standards. The initiative will also address trail gaps, expand infrastructure, and develop a long-term governance structure for planning and operations. By emphasizing equitable access and environmental integration, the plan seeks to promote public health and neighborhood vitality.

The Greenways Strategic Implementation Plan began in July 2024 and is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. By 2028, Marion County is expected to offer over 120 miles of greenways, enhancing connections between trails, neighborhoods, and transportation systems. This effort ensures that Indianapolis continues to grow a robust, inclusive, and future-ready trail network for generations to come.

Friday, May 16, 2025 in Indianapolis Recorder

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Cover CM Credits, Earn Certificates, Push Your Career Forward

Logo for Planetizen Federal Action Tracker with black and white image of U.S. Capitol with water ripple overlay.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

July 2, 2025 - Diana Ionescu

Aerial view of town of Wailuku in Maui, Hawaii with mountains in background against cloudy sunset sky.

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly

Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

July 1, 2025 - Honolulu Civil Beat

White and purple sign for Slow Street in San Francisco, California with people crossing crosswalk.

San Francisco Suspends Traffic Calming Amidst Record Deaths

Citing “a challenging fiscal landscape,” the city will cease the program on the heels of 42 traffic deaths, including 24 pedestrians.

July 1, 2025 - KQED

Google street view of red brick multi-story power plant building in Pittsburgh, PA.

Defunct Pittsburgh Power Plant to Become Residential Tower

A decommissioned steam heat plant will be redeveloped into almost 100 affordable housing units.

5 hours ago - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Cyclist on protected bike lane in middle of street in Washington D.C. with Washington Monument obelisk visible in background.

Trump Prompts Restructuring of Transportation Research Board in “Unprecedented Overreach”

The TRB has eliminated more than half of its committees including those focused on climate, equity, and cities.

6 hours ago - Streetsblog USA

Blue and silver Amtrak train at small station.

Amtrak Rolls Out New Orleans to Alabama “Mardi Gras” Train

The new service will operate morning and evening departures between Mobile and New Orleans.

July 3 - New Orleans City Business