Fishers Has Big Plans For ‘Distinct Asset’
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowFishers Mayor Scott Fadness has unveiled a multi-million dollar plan to transform the last remaining undeveloped plot of land along the 1,900-acre Geist Reservoir. The proposal for a 70-acre waterfront park could include an amphitheater, public beach, boardwalk and fishing dock, as well as public access for canoes, paddle boards and kayaks. The project, which could be complete by 2019, is still pending land purchase negotiations and a final design process the city says could start as early as the end of the year.
In an interview with Inside INdiana Business, Fadness calls an investment of this magnitude "critical" in ensuring the vibrancy of all parts of the city.
Fadness says "in conversations with multiple residents and stakeholders, I’ve heard time and time again the argument that the long term vibrancy of Geist is a concern. Part of that involves environmental, boat traffic, and new development. My hope is that this park development helps to mitigate those concerns for residents and turn Geist into a distinct asset for all of Fishers."
A news release from the Office of Mayor Fadness says details of the land negotiations are confidential until a deal can be reached, though Fadness tells Inside INdiana Business land acquisition could end up totaling "north of $9 million." If an agreement does not come together, the city says it could condemn the property in the interest of public use. The yet-to-be named-park would be built on property currently owned by Irving Materials Inc. and Marina Limited Partnership. Operations at a quarry on an IMI-owned portion of the property are expected to wrap by the end of the summer.
Fadness and City Councilor Pete Peterson say the park will help improve the experience for Fishers residents on the waterway by stemming some of the motorized boating traffic. "I hear from residents all the time that increasing boat traffic on Geist is the fastest way to reduce the recreational experience out there," Peterson says. "This is a real opportunity to utilize Fall Creek and connect the reservoir in a natural way to some of the most beautiful areas of our city. This is a win-win situation for Geist residents. By creating this natural recreation area and reducing new development, it will ultimately lessen the added boat traffic that comes with more homes and docks."
View aerial rendering of proposed park:
You can connect to more details of the proposed project by clicking here.