What We Do

Frequently Asked Questions

How does IPF work with Indy Parks to insure that newly acquired property is maintained?

When you have a parks system as large as Indy Parks, maintenance will always be an issue. The Parks Foundation and Indy Parks staff are looking at creative ways to ensure that all of Indy Parks facilities are clean, safe and well-maintained. One example of this is establishing an Endowment Fund that would help defray maintenance costs for all new projects and revisiting past projects to implement maintenance endowments for these as well. These endowments will help span the gap with private dollars when there is a shortfall in city budgets.On the other side of this issue is the quickly disappearing greenspace in Marion County. Consider these facts:

In 1993, there were 61,721 acres of vacant land in Marion County. By 1997, those acres had diminished to 46,845. It is estimated that by the year 2030, there will be no more developable land left in Marion County.
From 1960 to 1990 the population of the metropolitan area increased by 50%, while the built area increased by 300%.
Franklin and Pike townships (two of Marion County's nine total townships) only make up 4.98% of the county's total parkland. The townships together comprise only 635.24 acres of the county's total 12,744.8 acres. These two townships in particular are considerably underserved. (July 2005 statistics)

Will the Parks Foundation assist community organizations that use Indy Park facilities for programs?

The Indianapolis Parks Foundation works very closely with Indy Parks to determine priorities for projects that need funding. Direct funding may not be available from the Parks Foundation for your project. However, the Parks Foundation may be able to provide resources for you to secure funding. Contact Lori Hazlett.

I am just one person. Is my voice really all that important at parks community meetings?

One of the things that makes a parks system flourish is the support and participation of community members. The parks belong to you as a resident and taxpayer in Marion County. Your voice and participation is invaluable. Speak up for the park in your neighborhood. You'll be surprised at the difference it can make. To find out information on upcoming parks community meetings, please contact 327-PARK.

Do you have a question to which you could not find an answer on our Web site? Please let us know!