ADVERTISEMENT
$15 million Donation Pedals Bike Trails Forward10-23-06 | News

$15 million Donation Pedals Bike Trails Forward




img
 

A glimpse into the near future. A preview of what the 7.5 mile of bike/pedestrian trails will look like.


The Gene and Marilyn Glick Foundation?EUR??,,????'???s $15 million donation has geared up plans to connect the various districts and neighborhoods of downtown Indianapolis with bike trails and pedestrian paths. The donation represents 30 percent of the projected $50 million cost of what is called the Indianapolis Cultural Trail.

The city has plenty of concrete and asphalt, but that will be transformed into seven miles of more esthetically appealing and rideable hardscape. Six of the 7.5 miles of trails will take back a lane of traffic for itself, which the city fathers say is unprecedented for a U.S. urban center. The trails will also be landscaped with flowers and trees and feature public artwork. Construction on the first route begins in March 2007 and should finish in 2009.

The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is a public and private collaboration led by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, the city and several not-for-profit organizations. Monies are also coming from federal grants. Mayor Payne specifies that no money is coming from the city budget.

img