Development ideas could increase downtown density

The city seeks proposals for an opportunity to develop more density in the downtown core.

The city of Indianapolis opens up a new half-acre site for redevelopment ideas. The property at 222 North Alabama St. is now a parking lot north of the Old City Hall. The call for proposals aims to add density and incorporate mixed-use development that could include retail and housing.

The Department of Metropolitan Development will consider submissions that connect the area to the developing Market East District to the south and Mass Ave. to the north through a pedestrian-oriented design.

In a written statement, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said downtown is part of an economic development pipeline of over $3.8 billion.

“The city is playing an active role in driving investment through the public offering of this site and our previous calls for redevelopment downtown,” Hogsett said.

The Old City Hall is not part of the request but ideas should follow historic preservation restrictions associated with the 112-year-old building, which is currently vacant. Proposals will be accepted through Dec. 3.

Contact WFYI city government and policy reporter Jill Sheridan at jsheridan@wfyi.org. Follow on Twitter: @JillASheridan.