A local group reports an estimated 12,000 people experienced homelessness in Indianapolis this year.

Near East Area Renewal plans to lead the development of 21 three-bedroom homes on the near east side of Indianapolis, all located near North Rural Street.

Funding the program will require City-County Council approval. The mayor says it would not impact the 2018 city budget.

A significant amount of spending in the new budget is focused on public safety and infrastructure.

Mayor Joe Hogsett visited one group near Tarkington Park, to hand out the checks.

The mayor announced partnerships with businesses in the hospitality, restaurant and food service industries to help hire 2,000 young people this summer.

Many opponents of the project want the columbarium to be built, but not at the expense of the city's largest old-growth forest.

After months of review, the mayor and his team recommend building the facility where the old Citizens Energy coke plant was located, southeast of downtown Indy.

This marks the second time the city has been awarded money through the New Markets Tax Credit program.

The long awaited, Indianapolis operated, Albert G. and Sara I. Reuben Engagement Center will help homeless people find help for their addictions and is projected to save the city millions every year in emergency room and jail expenses.