Market Street upgrades add to downtown infrastructure improvements

One of Monument Circle’s spokes is the latest to receive a facelift.  The West Market Street reconstruction project will mirror improvements made along East Market Street last year. 

The brick pavers will be replaced on top of a concrete base and there will be extended walkways and improved space for trees.  

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the upgrades make the space more pedestrian-friendly and improves longevity.

“That ensures that we prioritize the historic and well traveled part of our city particularly downtown,” Hogsett said.

The Soldiers and Sailors Monument is also receiving upgrades. Work to restore the steps and the base is led by the Indiana War Memorial Commission.

Bob Schultz with Downtown Indy Inc. says Monument Circle is special. 

“It is the people’s plaza,” Schultz said, “It is what gathers individuals, families, visitors, residents, businesses and returning to work employees of our entire community.”

Hogsett said the Market Street investment is an investment in the city’s economy.

“It’s a road leading to dozens of local businesses, both small and large,” he said.

This week the Indianapolis City-County Council approved $40 million for infrastructure through the Circle City Forward initiative.  The city plans to commit more than $1.1 billion to infrastructure projects over the next five years.

Visit Indy Senior Vice President of Communications Chris Gahl said tourism has almost fully recovered from the pandemic and it’s important to preserve the mile square.

“A significant portion of the city’s 30 million annual visitors deliberately seek out Monument Circle and the surrounding area,” Gahl said.

West Market Street upgrades are scheduled to be completed by January.

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