INDIANAPOLIS — The City of Indianapolis Department of Metropolitan Development has released a comprehensive revitalization plan for Broad Ripple Village, the beloved northside entertainment and shopping district, following an 18-month planning process that gathered input from more than 1,200 residents and business owners.

The plan calls for improved pedestrian infrastructure along Broad Ripple Avenue, expanded greenway connections to the Monon Trail, new mixed-income housing within a quarter mile of the commercial corridor, and zoning changes that would allow more mixed-use development while protecting existing neighborhood character.

"Broad Ripple is one of Indianapolis's most beloved places," said Deputy Mayor of Economic Development Jonathon Castillo. "This plan is about investing in its future while honoring what makes it special."

Residents at a recent community meeting at the Broad Ripple Park Fieldhouse expressed both enthusiasm and concern. Many praised the pedestrian safety improvements and greenway expansions, while others worried that new housing development could drive up rents and displace existing tenants.

Key Plan Elements

The plan's transportation chapter recommends narrowing Broad Ripple Avenue from four lanes to two between College Avenue and the White River, adding protected bike lanes and wider sidewalks. Traffic studies suggest the reduction would improve pedestrian safety without significantly increasing commute times.

The housing component identifies several underutilized parcels near the commercial core suitable for four- to six-story mixed-use buildings. The plan recommends that any new residential development in the corridor include at least 20 percent affordable units.

Local businesses in Broad Ripple can explore property management and discovery resources through Discover Properties, which tracks commercial and residential opportunities across the Indianapolis metro area.

The plan goes before the City-County Council's Metropolitan and Economic Development Committee next month for discussion before a full council vote expected in the fall.