INDIANAPOLIS | Georgia Street | U/C [Archive]

moochie

September 14th, 2011, 06:22 PM

aavmarine, I've been by a few times this week, and conditions just weren't right to take pics. Mostly I don't want to freak out the construction workers who are really under a microscope because of the massive gas leak last Friday when they inexplicably dug through the main gas line evacuating everyone for blocks around for hours. They're definitely tense over there. I'll try again today.

Latest article on name change:

http://www.fox59.com/news/wxin-city-goes-through-3000-submissions-to-rename-section-of-downtown-street-20110913,0,2019005.column

City goes through 3,000 submissions to rename downtown street
A section on Georgia Street might get a new name ahead of Super Bowl

The City of Indianapolis and Indianapolis Downtown, Inc. is taking public input into consideration for a possible new name for a three block stretch of Georgia Street.

The stretch between the Indiana Convention Center and Conseco Fieldhouse is already under construction to become a pedestrian-friendly walkway. That’s part of a $12,000,000 makeover project ahead of the 2012 Super Bowl.

"It's going to have a beautiful center lane boardwalk, as well as a very dramatic lighting system," explained Julia Watson, Vice President, Marketing and Communications at Downtown Inc. "It's really going to be unlike any other street that we have in Indianapolis."

Watson said the City received about 3,000 submissions including the following:

Whitcomb Street
General Timothy Maude (killed at Pentagon on 9/11)
Victory Street
Liberty Street
Peyton Place

The organization also received many submissions to keep it Georgia St. Opponents protesting the name change were so outraged, they even created a Facebook page asking city officials to consider the street’s historical significance.

Even the business owners on Georgia Street have differing opinions.

"I don't really know why they want to change it?," asked Gordon Coke, owner of The Pub on East Georgia. "A lot of people are gonna have to change their accounts, their mailing address and all that."

On the other hand, Old Spaghetti Factory manager Ryan Oates said the restaurant is welcoming the change.

"[The area is] going to change dramatically and for the people that do come in from out of town, it’d be nice to have a fresh new name to add to the fresh new feel that we’re adding to the street."

Indianapolis Downtown Inc. will pick the top four or five suggestions and the mayor will have the final say. The City has the option to not change the name.

EddieB317

September 14th, 2011, 06:40 PM

Hopefully we will have a new mayor with a brain after the November 08, 2011 elections and the final say will respect the history of our city.

moochie

September 14th, 2011, 07:27 PM

Dreary day to take pics but aavmarine, here are a few for you to peruse. The pavers in front of the Convention Center are getting even more interesting.

http://indianapolisparking.net/g1.jpg

http://indianapolisparking.net/g2.jpg

http://indianapolisparking.net/g3.jpg

http://indianapolisparking.net/g4.jpg

http://indianapolisparking.net/g5.jpg

moochie

September 14th, 2011, 07:34 PM

I drove by today and saw that they have now planted several large trees. I'd say they're somewhere between 15 and 20 feet tall. It really adds a lot to the look of the place -- much more like the type of place where I'd want to walk or hang out. Its coming along.

Actually, none of them are planted yet. They're bagged up and sitting above ground. It isn't clear where they are to be planted exactly. They're about 25 to 30 feet tall when you consider that they're still above ground.

moochie

September 14th, 2011, 07:35 PM

Anyone have any detail on the lighting? I think that'll really make or break this project.. What I've seen is very interesting but a bit vague. I guess they'll be changing it a lot? If so... cool...

From Ratio:

http://indianapolisparking.net/g6.jpg

http://indianapolisparking.net/g7.jpg

aavmarine

September 14th, 2011, 09:17 PM

moochie

September 14th, 2011, 09:21 PM

Thanks alot Moochie. We moved away from Indianapolis 3 1/2 years ago, so this is the only way I can keep up with what is happening in my home town. Heck, I even help build the Luke and never got to see it open. Anyway, why does it seem that the poles in the middle are at an angle? And if so, why? As far as the name. They should just keep it SB Village Ln until after the SB and then change it to the new name.

All poles are angled out about 5 degrees. Just an asthetic thing I guess. It looks good in person.

I wouldn't mind if they called that section the "Georgia Street Promenade". I'd probably object to anything else.

IndyYeah

September 15th, 2011, 02:58 AM

I believe the poles are that way for looks, and the bases look angled as well. Are the poles for lighting etc.?

moochie

September 15th, 2011, 04:29 AM

Lighting, canopies, advertising banners, art displays, seasonal promotions etc.

I'd love to see more details. I understand that it's being done this way so it can be changed often and I'm sure many different variations were shown in the design phase. I've only seen those two ratio pics.

cailes

September 15th, 2011, 04:01 PM

The renderings don't really develop the sense of a border created by the posts, but on the ground they really seem to define the pedestrian space and the street space. Moochie's pictures show this very well too.

heritagephoto

September 19th, 2011, 04:39 AM

It appears that the majority of Indianapolis residents object to renaming Georgia Street. If there is a compelling reason to change it, I'd love to here the arguments. If you would like it to remain Georgia Street, as it was named in Alexander Ralston's 1821 plat of Indianapolis, please do the following:
1. Sign the petition: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/keepgeorgiast/
2. Write to: julia@indydt.com, Ryan.Schafer@indy.gov, GeorgiaStreet@indy.gov, marc.lotter@indy.gov
3. Leave a message for Mayor Ballard: http://www.indy.gov/eGov/Mayor/getintouch/Pages/ContactUs.aspx
4. Follow the Keep Georgia Street group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Keep-the-historic-name-Georgia-Street-Indianapolis/283498898332005?sk=wall

moochie

September 21st, 2011, 03:23 PM

^^ In reality - the trees are actually in the 30 - 35 foot range. They're very good sized. They are sycamore trees as well -- so they will really get big before too long. Its hard to believe they would plant trees that could potentially be 100+ feet tall! That would be very strange if that actually happened in 70 years -- to have 100 foot tall sycamore trees growing between the Omin-Severin and Harry & Izzy's on Georgia Street.

Wow they're putting in a lot of trees now. You really can't get in to take good pics, but Georgia is busier than I've ever seen it with construction workers. Picking up steam.

cailes

September 22nd, 2011, 04:41 PM

As of 9/21/2011

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6178/6172446254_909fc88a6f_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6160/6172443116_2b262ce391_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6170/6172442078_65dbb45a7b_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6162/6171911819_ee8fbfcf8b_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6170/6171908173_96de7632b7_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6165/6171903045_21ac81d850_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6156/6172431662_16d54f3382_z.jpg

aavmarine

September 22nd, 2011, 10:49 PM

Nice pics. It looks like now (3rd pic from bottom) that the poles are vetical and not at an angle. Maybe its just the pic, but in some of the pics, the base isn't filled in and the poles are at an angle. And the ones with the base filled in, the poles are straight. Maybe its just me. Still, the whole project is looking good.

EddieB317

September 22nd, 2011, 11:14 PM

I think it is just distortion from the wide angle lens.

araman0

September 23rd, 2011, 12:44 AM

GarfieldPark

September 23rd, 2011, 05:46 AM

^^ The project you are looking at (Georgia Street) is just a three block project. It will not be considered a prototype to be used throughout the city. It is just for this very unique spot which runs between the Convention Center (which is connected to Lucas Oil Stadium) and Conseco Fieldhouse.

The Convention Center is now one of the larger complexes in the country - with about 750,000 sq. feet of primary exhibition space and another 200,000 sq ft or so of additional ball room and meeting room space. Indy is regularly attracting conventions in the 25,000 - 55,000 person range. Plus -- there are many additional big events at Lucas Oil Stadium. Besides the 10 Colts games (plus playoff games sometimes) - there are other big events (Circle City Classic football, NCAA championships, World DrumCorp championships, Natl HS Marching Band Championship, national religious conventions, occasional concerts, State HS Football Championships, etc.

Then there's Conseco Fieldhouse as well. Pacers games, Fever games, concerts, State HS Championships in many sports, Ice Skating shows, WWE wrestling, HS graduations, ... you name it. In other words -- there are a lot of times when there are 10,000 to 100,000 people coming into and out of this area. This area also is the south end of Circle Centre shopping complex and is in the heart of the "Wholesale District" which is an area full of bars, live music places, clubs, restaurants, etc. Lots of people hang out in this area -- and this will likely be happening even more in the future.

This is meant to be a place where people can hang out - before and after big events; in between (and after) sessions of a convention; before, during and after going downtown for a bite to eat or a drink or two. When the Big Ten Football Championships will be in town in 2 1/2 months, this is where 30,000 Wisconsin fans and 30,000 Nebraska or Michigan or Penn State (who knows?) fans will come to party, eat and hang out with all of their fellow fans.

It needs to be a very unique, well built and designed, interesting, attractive and fun place -- that easily connects with the surrounding buildings and businesses. It is not meant to set a standard to be copied throughout the city. It is just for this one special place.

The Cultural Trail is the other thing you were mentioning. It does contain individual "bricks" or pavers throughout the 8 or so miles that it covers. It has many other very special qualities. Its worth googling and going to the Cultural Trail website to learn more about it.

Both of these projects are not likely to be exactly copied in many (if any) other areas -- although I could see some similar things happening in the future that somewhat resemble the Cultural Trail on other important corridors - particularly in the downtown area. Although there may not be a lot of exact copies of these types of projects - they are definitely helping to set a very high standard for the right ways to build bicycling and pedestrian infrastructure. It will likely help make people realize that other areas could greatly benefit from projects that are similar to what is happening with the Georgia Street improvements and the Cultural Trail.

The total cost of the two projects is about $70 million dollars - most of which came from private sector contributions and a federal transportation fund (a 2010 TIGER grant). You are right that it is too expensive to be done everywhere. It is important though to do it right with high quality materials in these appropriate places. Doing it on the cheap would not make them special places -- and they need to be in order to to make sure they do a good job of fullfilling their important functions. We'll soon find out if this is working - as the Cultural Trail should be all finished by next Spring - and the Georgia Street project will be completed by the end of November.

aavmarine

September 23rd, 2011, 08:56 PM

Setting each brick down brick by brick has got to add quite a bit to the cost of the project. It will look very nice at the end, but I wonder if they would have chosen stamped concrete if they would have been able to do the project cheaper, making it easier to scale future projects out more. In the Madison area brick stamped colored concrete is becoming the standard for crosswalks and some other pedestrian areas, and I'm sure the relatively lower price makes it possible to be used on such a large scale. Individual brick placement certainly looks a lot nicer, but it makes it too cost prohibitive to become a city-wide standard. I noticed that parts of the downtown Indianapolis bike paths were also built from individual brick placements.

Sorry, but your statement really gets to me. Even thou I don't live in Indy anymore, I know there are a lot of people through out this board that complain about how cheaply buildings, apts, condos, stadiums, convention centers, etc look. And pretty soon we will have two world wide talked about projects completed, and you are complaining about how nice they look, and how Indy should have gone the cheaper way in building them. In 5 months, the city and state will have the world come down on their backs. 1000's of tv and radio stations will be nit-picking this city apart. Whether good or bad, these past 5 projects (LOS, CC, Marriott, Airport, Trail and this one) all have to look spectacular to the world. To me, Indy is counting on the look of these projects and function to bring in more conventions and businesses to the city. Going the cheaper way is not going to bring in the big bucks. Just my 2 cents....

araman0

September 25th, 2011, 11:40 PM

Don't get me wrong, I am ecstatic that Indianapolis is taking such huge steps (more than any other Midwestern city I can think of right now) to improve public spaces in its downtown. It has sure come a long way from my days at Purdue almost a decade ago. These improvements are going to dramatically improve visitors' experiences as they descend onto the city later this year, in addition to the residents of the city and the region.

The rest of the city is also in need of improvements in streetscaping. I hope that the relatively high cost of the downtown improvement projects don't become a deterrent to the acceptance of other more humble neighborhood-level projects in the future. It could also help other smaller projects in the future once city leaders learn how improvements in public spaces can go a long way in attracting and retaining residents and business.

GarfieldPark

September 26th, 2011, 04:50 AM

^^ There's a lot of other stuff going on in other parts of the city as well. The Department of Public Works has new funds (from the sale of the water utility) in a program called "Rebuild Indy" that has about $450 million to spend on local infrastructure improvements. There are projects going in all over the place. Irvington has a Main Street improvement project that is supposed to be starting soon - if it hasn't started already; Along with the Cultural Trail coming into Fountain Square and the bike Cycle Track lanes coming up from the south - there is a new expansion to the square that'll be going in soon; there is the "Harmoni" project which will make pedestrian and other Complete Streets improvements in the Meridian Street corridor between around 38th and 60th streets; Speedway is doing all kinds of streetscape improvements; there are many more miles of bike lanes going in all over the place; E. 10th Street is seeing pedestrian improvements; The MLK corridor has recently seen some pedestrian and other improvements.

araman0

September 27th, 2011, 12:20 AM

Thank you Garfield, I wasn't aware of these. I will try to look up some information on these projects.

BenIndy

September 30th, 2011, 05:59 PM

Historic Pillar Renderings (http://ht.ly/6JG6g)

How nice would it be if the CSX building actually looked as good as it does in the rendering?
I don't really have an opinion yet on the pillars, but it seems like they're making it up as they go. Why weren't these part of the original plan?

CorrND

October 3rd, 2011, 02:44 AM

This design is decidedly weak, perhaps on purpose. I'm guessing they're trying to be sensitive to not overwhelming the space on Georgia St. but I think that'll cause the pillars to be forgotten.

Honestly I wish they weren't trying to add this. They're trying to throw everything and the kitchen sink into Georgia St. and I think it might end up too busy.

moochie

October 3rd, 2011, 03:39 PM

GarfieldPark

October 3rd, 2011, 07:18 PM

As I mentioned a few posts above -- there are pedestrian oriented / Complete Streets projects happening in many parts of Indianapolis. Here is a story about plans for improvements in the "HARMONI" area:

From the Indianapolis Star --- Monday, October 3, 2011:

Mayor Greg Ballard and the Historic Midtown Neighborhood Initiative (HARMONI) today announced several streetscape and infrastructure projects in Broad Ripple Village, Butler-Tarkington, Meridian-Kessler and the North Meridian Street Historic District.

“This announcement is a great example of how RebuildIndy is partnering with neighborhood groups to realize a new vision for our community,” Mayor Ballard said in a prepared statement. “For years, HARMONI and the residents of Midtown have thoughtfully developed their plan.”

The projects include raised medians on Meridian Street, a landscape buffer between the curb and sidewalk along Meridian from 54th Street to Westfield Boulevard, along Westfield Boulevard from Meridian Street to Meridian Lane and along 56th Street from Illinois Street to Washington Boulevard.

Pedestrian crossings will be added at the intersections of Meridian Street and Westfield Boulevard, and Meridian and East 57th Street and along the Meridian Street Bridge.

The City will fund about $1 million for the projects through RebuildIndy, according to a news release. The Historic Midtown Neighborhood Initiative also is funding construction, design and inspection costs through a $396,800 federal grant and $99,200 in private fundraising.

The city has funded more than $182 million in RebuildIndy since September 2010 to repair infrastructure throughout Indianapolis.

Jon Mills, spokesman for Democrat mayoral candidate Melina Kennedy, said much of the RebuildIndy work to date has been haphazardly managed, and the city needs to work with neighborhoods to do more projects like this one.

“We need to be more strategic with our infrastructure dollars and work with our neighborhoods to implement strategic improvements,” he said.

cailes

October 4th, 2011, 02:17 PM

From 10-3-2011

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6210798070_5a19560596_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6070/6210290485_a7f52baf88_z.jpg

GarfieldPark

October 4th, 2011, 08:31 PM

I ran into a friend over the lunch hour today who works in administration / catering at the Convention Center. We were talking about Georgia Street and he told me that he had heard that it is supposed to be "done" in time for the FFA Convention, which occurs the week of Octoboer 17th. Most of the kids begin arriving on Tuesday and Wednesday, the 18th and 19th - with the full blown convention and its 55,000 kids and chaperones filling the downtown area from Thursday through Sunday, October 20th through the 23rd.

That means they basically have 2 weeks from today to have it ready for them. I walked over there - and was surprised to see that parts of it are looking pretty close to completed. The western most block looks like they should have no trouble finishing it in the next week and a half. The middle block is getting close - and - with a little extra effort probably could be ready also. The eastern block had been the area that seemed furthest behind. It actually is starting to look like it is coming together however. They have most of the wooden planking done and have the trees planted. I still will be surprised if they get it fully completed within two weeks -- but I could see it being pretty close. I would think they should be able to have it cleaned up enough to let the kids walk through the area for the couple of days while they're in town -- but then will need to do some additional work afterward with more of the finishing touches.

I don't think they'll have much trouble getting it completed by early to mid November - and then will have some extra time to get the additional things (banners, canopies, fire pits, etc.) in place for it to be ready for the Big Ten Football Championship on December 4th.

moochie

October 12th, 2011, 04:51 PM

ablerock

October 12th, 2011, 07:54 PM

Cylindrical lantern type lighting elements going up on West Gerogia. I like them, modern, understated and classy. Won't detract from whatever banners and canopies will be used on any given event.

This really is the best picture that can be taken on a weekday... construction over there is going at a fever pitch... pedestrians simply can't get close.. It's a dreary day too. looks like it's gonna rain.

They're really, really great.

I was able to walk the length of the boardwalk on the west block early Tuesday morning and a few were installed. Just the simple addition of the lamps make the experience way more intimate, human-scaled, and slightly magical (as they'll look a bit like they're floating). It's a comfortable roof feeling without being enclosed. It's really going to be a wonderful, wonderful space. Great job, Ratio.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6111/6233984066_1a2091eb16_z.jpg

Round Rock

October 14th, 2011, 06:11 PM

Cylindrical lantern type lighting elements going up on West Gerogia. I like them, modern, understated and classy. Won't detract from whatever banners and canopies will be used on any given event.

This really is the best picture that can be taken on a weekday... construction over there is going at a fever pitch... pedestrians simply can't get close.. It's a dreary day too. looks like it's gonna rain.

http://indianapolisparking.net/ggg.jpg

Would it be possible to get an image of the lights that will be bordering the sidewalk? I noticed in your large image you can see them down the street toward the parking garage and church to the right. (looking west to convention center)

Round Rock

October 14th, 2011, 06:21 PM

moochie

October 14th, 2011, 08:10 PM

Another question: Georgia Street

In the original plan, are they going to put in the double spires (or flag poles) at the east end of Georgia Street? I thought that was an interesting touch, kind of an anchoring point. Just curious.

I see no evidence of it.

Man... today was the most difficult non-event day to get around downtown that I've ever seen by foot and vehicle... Major snowstorms haven't been as bad as this.. Construction has been notched up even further!

But I got in and took a few pics of those lights.

http://indianapolisparking.net/a.jpg

http://indianapolisparking.net/a2.jpg

http://indianapolisparking.net/a3.jpg

http://indianapolisparking.net/a1.jpg

cailes

October 14th, 2011, 08:59 PM

Hey cdc_guy, those bollards make you feel a little better about separating pedestrians from the cars?

EddieB317

October 14th, 2011, 09:07 PM

I have walked around down there a few times in the past week and it is going to be great. It feels like there is almost no separation between the pedestrian and vehicle lanes. Cars will have to go slow, just like on the circle. I know there were worries about the interaction of people and cars, but after actually going to the site I don't think it will be a problem. We will be able to feel it out better very soon!

It really is turing out to be a GREAT project.

GarfieldPark

October 18th, 2011, 04:47 AM

Wow. I drove through the area tonight and all of the lights were on. It looks like a party ready to happen. The white hanging lights add a great glow down the street - and there are small, bright blue lights on top of every angled pole. I don't think the short lights were on -- but when they get added to the mix - it will be a fantastic street party. A month and a half until the Big Ten Football Championship. That'll be the first really huge party in this space. Can't wait!

moochie

October 19th, 2011, 05:45 PM

They've got the South lane and sidewalk open the entire route. I couldn't take pics because it's raining, but wow... This isn't just a nice space... This place is amazing... I'll take pix if the rain clears up.

ablerock

October 19th, 2011, 08:36 PM

moochie

October 19th, 2011, 11:09 PM

Crap pix taken on a dark rainy day with a wet camera lens... disappointing, but not in person! The place is simply awesome. I haven't seen a single FFA kid with an umbrella all day.. Aren't they supposed to be smart?

Bollards galore..

http://indianapolisparking.net/31.JPG

http://indianapolisparking.net/32.JPG

http://indianapolisparking.net/33.JPG

http://indianapolisparking.net/34.JPG

indymidlander

October 20th, 2011, 01:10 AM

great pics, thanks! i may be a hometown homer, but does anyone think this project will recieve any national attention? maybe a "template" of what right to do when trying to make streets more walkable? this is a great project...

moochie

October 20th, 2011, 03:31 PM

Most of the North sidewalk and street are now open. I love the removable bollards in the street. I'd been wondering how they were planning to block traffic during events.

Round Rock

October 20th, 2011, 10:43 PM

Its kind of funny when this was first announced many of us here questioned the cost as being somewhat excessive. I would bet we all agree that the $12million was spent well making a landmark space for downtown Indy.

cailes

October 21st, 2011, 03:06 PM

Most of the North sidewalk and street are now open. I love the removable bollards in the street. I'd been wondering how they were planning to block traffic during events.

The first thing I noticed was how they can insert the bollards to block traffic.

I love it. It would be nice if our planners could take this kind of pedestrian first approach in more places than simply where we are catering to the convention goer.

moochie

October 21st, 2011, 06:40 PM

One neat touch is that there are Walk lights on the boardwalk on every intersection. So 3 walk/don't walk signs on every part of the street. People on the boardwalk won't have to go to the corner to cross the street.

cailes

October 25th, 2011, 02:20 PM

Some pics after dark last night

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6111/6279405993_77ebbb13c9_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6038/6279403035_777521a692_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6237/6279924268_0da1480b3b_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6112/6279406547_f95b448216_z.jpg

ablerock

October 25th, 2011, 06:12 PM

Indy'd

October 25th, 2011, 06:21 PM

few projects in Indy give the planning nerd in me the warm fuzzy excited feeling, but this does it! I can't wait to walk around for no reason or to ride the CT and break off at this point to stroll down the 'walk'....new nickname? hahaha

cailes

October 25th, 2011, 06:43 PM

I'm wondering if this will be picturesque enough even for lovebirds. I'm hoping it will be! A lot of couples like to take engagement or wedding pics on the Circle or War Memorial. It would be nice if this became another special place to be photographed in.

Good point dude. I think it will be. Being married to a professional, I have built a tuned eye, and this looks like a place for that. once all the benches, plantings and such are all done, look out.

moochie

October 26th, 2011, 02:55 AM

Officially opening 8pm tomorrow

cailes

October 27th, 2011, 03:00 PM

A bunch more taken yesterday & last night

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6238/6286046778_2058ef052b_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6040/6286048092_4d087e97a2_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6214/6285529455_50d603606a_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6106/6285529037_9084b4db30_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6097/6285533729_687ab0ef12_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6038/6285535407_6957292701_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6237/6285539043_1f731f2d3a_z.jpg

Bluury but for good measure, saw a car driving along the street as I was leaving :-) Shutter speed was too slow and it blurred, but you get the point
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6119/6285539377_5a7a3c9d81_z.jpg

cwilson758

October 29th, 2011, 05:38 PM

I hope this spurs more restaurants/cafes along this stretch - is there room for outdoor dining? I haven't been down there yet to examine for myself

GarfieldPark

October 30th, 2011, 07:14 AM

^^ Hopefully they'll put some restaurants in on the first floor of the south end of Circle Centre -- although that would be different from what you mentioned in the Indy development thread where you said Simon planned to put a Lord & Taylor on the first floor. I hope that doesnt' happen. Restaurants would be better -- or at the worst - a mix of retail and restaurants.

The corridor is looking better as they are removing more and more of the construction junk -- the orange cones, "keep out" netting, and piles of pavers. There is still a little bit of paver installation left to do - but not too much. I also noticed there are little pieces of tape alongside the corridor that say things like "bike racks", "waste basket", "bench", etc. -- telling the crews where to install those things. Some additional small landscaping will also help immensely as well. People are walking through the area now -- but, without benches or any snack places or drink or retail kiosks -- there really is no reason to stop -- so it still looks a little empty.

Five weeks until the Big Ten Football Championship - which will be the first mega event in this space. With the results from today's games - including Wisconsin's second straight Big Ten loss, its looking like it could be Penn State from one division playing either Nebraska, Michigan State or Michigan from the other Division.

k2h

October 30th, 2011, 08:46 PM

I'm not convinced more restaurants are the answer. Yes, restaurants bring activity to the street, but we should not lose sight of the fact that an abundance of restaurants will never counterbalance the right mix of uses that truly creates a 24/7 environment. The goal, after all, is not to create a playland for the convention business, but to create an environment that appeals to people with varying interests and intentions for visiting downtown.

With all the focus on Georgia Street being a draw for large events, people overlook the incredible quality of living impact the street has on the people living in the area. Think about it. The Harness Factory Lofts, Six over Meridian, Allen Plaza, Janus Lofts, The Block, 26 West Washington, are all located within a few blocks of Georgia Street (and I am forgetting others), yet I have not seen one news piece discussing a residents perspective.

In any case, I like the idea of Lord & Taylor. The Mall has to have a strong luxury anchor in order to keep quality small shops from leaving. Hopefully, Simon has the foresight to realize the street level of the property needs to be enhanced and opened up to better engage the new street life created by the Georgia Street improvements. This can be accomplished with Lord & Taylor by adding an entry from Georgia Street or getting creative with window displays and increasing transparency into the store. This will also help maintain a healthy retail mix at street level.

Indy'd

October 31st, 2011, 03:17 PM

I took a ride on Georgia and noticed a lot of dips or waves on the street and either sidewalk. I know it is touhg to create perfection I just hope this doesn't mean the project will be in need of repair in just a few years........

GarfieldPark

October 31st, 2011, 03:35 PM

I've driven on it too. I'm not sure if it is "dips" or "waves" --- but I did notice that they have white paver stripes installed at regular intervals along the roadway - which do make slight bumps as you are driving. If you drive faster than about 20 mph - it seems kind of bumpy. If you drive at 15 mph or below -- you don't really notice it much. I think the stripes have been installed to purposely slow traffic down. This is not meant to be a place for cars to zip through to get across downtown. They are supposed to drive slowly through the area. I think that is why the "dips" have been installed that you mentioned. Does that seem possible? or do you really think the pavement has been installed poorly? I think it is just an engineered type of widely spaced "rumble strips".

moochie

November 8th, 2011, 11:57 PM

Hate to say it, but I'm seeing shoddy work an all paver types on all parts of Georgia. Non-level stones resulting in cracking, dips in the street where small sections seem to have sunk, areas where pavers have little or no fill between them resulting in them moving too far one direction or another etc.

What I'm seeing would be acceptable if it was several years old and had normal wear and tear... I'm hoping that they're far from done, and crews are correcting problems as they occur.

EddieB317

November 9th, 2011, 12:21 AM

Yeah, I noticed that the cups for the removable bollards are not all even heights. If I remember correctly at Illinois street, east side of the street, east bound, it is the worst.

There are still crews out there and (I hope) they still have to do the sand pack. I am going to wait until I see the finished product before I judge.

Who has final approval of the workmanship? Maybe we can make a little noise so they don't let the contractor slide on the bigger issues.

CorrND

November 9th, 2011, 05:07 AM

My only experience with Georgia St. has been driving on it westbound twice in the last week. I drove very slowly to take it in as best I could, but as Indy'd mentioned, it's noticeably wavey along there. I'm not sure what that's all about.

moochie

December 9th, 2011, 04:29 PM

The past couple weeks have seen big efforts to correct the problems on Georgia. Lots of leveling and moving stones around. It's a big improvement, but there is still work to do.

Indy'd

December 9th, 2011, 06:49 PM

The past couple weeks have seen big efforts to correct the problems on Georgia. Lots of leveling and moving stones around. It's a big improvement, but there is still work to do.

Hopefully it involves trimming the trees a bit.

ablerock

December 9th, 2011, 11:14 PM

The past couple weeks have seen big efforts to correct the problems on Georgia. Lots of leveling and moving stones around. It's a big improvement, but there is still work to do.

Good to hear, thanks.

moochie

December 14th, 2011, 04:00 PM

Those horrible tripping parking stones are gone. lots of improvements all around.

GarfieldPark

December 14th, 2011, 04:09 PM

^^ Good. I was at the Big Ten pre-game party there - and people were tripping over them right and left. Thats particularly a bummer when you've just bought a few beers and are trying to make it through the crowd. Glad they've gotten rid of them.

moochie

December 15th, 2011, 06:26 PM

I'm too lazy to look and see if anyone else posted this, but those electric car charging stations on Georgia are kinda neat. Bigger that I thought they'd be though.

Indy'd

December 15th, 2011, 07:23 PM

I'm too lazy to look and see if anyone else posted this, but those electric car charging stations on Georgia are kinda neat. Bigger that I thought they'd be though.

I didn't know what they were as I was walking on the boardwalk section. I looked like an idiot watching them as if someone would jump out. I also liked the parking/no parking installations. It provided bike parking and doesn't look crappy like big signs or posters.

moochie

December 15th, 2011, 09:07 PM

I didn't know what they were as I was walking on the boardwalk section. I looked like an idiot watching them as if someone would jump out. I also liked the parking/no parking installations. It provided bike parking and doesn't look crappy like big signs or posters.

I saw a parking/no parking sign (I love them too btw) get hit by a truck near Hotbox Pizza today as he tried to back into a space. It was completely destroyed and the truck lost a taillight.. They look nice, but perhaps need to be a bit heftier. It seems like they're doing a lot of trial and error.

The two electric spaces say "Electric vehicles only, pay at the charging station" but there are non-electric trucks parked in the spaces and they haven't been ticketed.

Perhaps those were construction workers trucks, but I'm seeing a lot of weird abuses on Georgia as the locals figure out the new rules, and the city learns what signage/infrastructure is necessary on such an unusual street.

cailes

December 19th, 2011, 07:58 PM

Took this with my crappy old iphone after yesterday's Colts win and Instagrammed it.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7028/6538860473_1cc83a10ca_o.jpg

Indy'd

December 19th, 2011, 08:28 PM

Took this with my crappy old iphone after yesterday's Colts win and Instagrammed it.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7028/6538860473_1cc83a10ca_o.jpg

Nice. I got a good view down Georgia from inside Conseco during Saturday's games.......It is an exciting project.

Indy'd

January 6th, 2012, 04:26 PM

Kind of what I was afraid of......hopefully they get it fixed for a longer period:

http://www.indystar.com/article/20120105/NEWS11/120105031/Contractor-fix-cracked-pavement-Georgia-Street?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|IndyStar.com|s

Drewbie

January 11th, 2012, 09:56 AM

Cant Wait to See the concerts in the village this February. Umphrey's Mcgee, The Twin Cats, Rusty, DJ Kyle Long, Born Again Floozies, North Mississippi Allstars .... The List Goes on, There really is some Great Local Talent on showcase that week. Be sure to Check out the Twin Cats Though. They'll be the Houseband for ESPN that week. Anyone who's patronized the mousetrap over on 56th and keystone, may well be aware of their face melting funk, in your face, melting it !!!

This whole project is stunning, and I cant wait to see it get the attention a project of its callibur deserves, i think the locals are really going to fall in love with it, this next month.

moochie

January 16th, 2012, 08:17 PM

They're putting in some impressive lighting elements today and testing them. Also, heating lamps are being hung. It's all pretty neat. I'll try to get some pix this afternoon.

moochie

January 16th, 2012, 09:53 PM

They're putting in some impressive lighting elements today and testing them. Also, heating lamps are being hung. It's all pretty neat. I'll try to get some pix this afternoon.

The covered lamps oscillate 360 degrees in sync with each other and they are very bright and fast. It'll be awfully neat to see what kind of lighting shows they'll produce.

Sorry, these pics are the best I can do today.

http://indianapolisparking.net/ll.jpg

http://indianapolisparking.net/ll2.jpg

http://indianapolisparking.net/ll3.jpg

GarfieldPark

January 17th, 2012, 04:09 AM

I saw one of those newly mounted lights operating a few nights ago. Each light throws out about three rotating beacons - and I'd guess there are about 60 of them along the corridor. Also --- the first large SB poster that I've seen going up on a building is on the SW corner of Circle Centre above Harry & Izzy's along the Ga. Street corridor.

moochie

January 17th, 2012, 05:47 PM

There are 96, and they're freakin amazing. here's a video:

http://www.wishtv.com/dpp/super_bowl_xlvi/super-light-display-going-up-downtown?ref=scroller&categoryId=10001&status=true

There will be a total of 150, the remainder will be mounted on buildings.

I saw one of those newly mounted lights operating a few nights ago. Each light throws out about three rotating beacons - and I'd guess there are about 60 of them along the corridor. Also --- the first large SB poster that I've seen going up on a building is on the SW corner of Circle Centre above Harry & Izzy's along the Ga. Street corridor.

ablerock

January 17th, 2012, 08:44 PM

There are 96, and they're freakin amazing. here's a video:

http://www.wishtv.com/dpp/super_bowl_xlvi/super-light-display-going-up-downtown?ref=scroller&categoryId=10001&status=true

There will be a total of 150, the remainder will be mounted on buildings.

Geez, if these are permanent, this summer there needs to be a frigging huge outdoor block party with DJs and dancing late into the night. And we need to close the entire block to traffic once a month and just throw a kick-ass outdoor dance party. FOR US, not tourists! :)

cailes

January 18th, 2012, 02:45 AM

that is a great idea

unvrsty07

January 18th, 2012, 09:11 AM

ablerock

January 18th, 2012, 03:33 PM

I really do not see what the big fuss is about concerning these lights. They are nothing more than intelligent lighting common at any guitar center or sam ash across the nation... A cool effect? Ok maybe, but they are not even using scanners for crying out loud. Pulsating/chasing lights along the board walk or more interactive lighting like the Virginia avenue art project I would say great idea, but this is nothing more than a simplistic light show, and slightly cheesy at that.

It's just fun. No one said it's going to win the "light show of the year" award. But I don't think that's the goal. They make the space come alive with a simple, restrained gesture. The addition of multi-colored scanners is what would make this cheesy. (And they'll probably install them as I type this.) There's going to be sensory overload as is, who knows what other lighting will be going on all over downtown. This just adds the necessary level of excitement without dominating the space. Have you seen it in person?

Round Rock

January 18th, 2012, 05:02 PM

It's just fun. No one said it's going to win the "light show of the year" award. But I don't think that's the goal. They make the space come alive with a simple, restrained gesture. The addition of multi-colored scanners is what would make this cheesy. (And they'll probably install them as I type this.) There's going to be sensory overload as is, who knows what other lighting will be going on all over downtown. This just adds the necessary level of excitement without dominating the space. Have you seen it in person?

Exactly correct. I'll tell you what when the Dallas host committee comes and sees what Indy has done they are going to absolutely realize how badly they missed it last year. There attempt at a superbowl village in downtown Dallas and in Ft. Worth didn't use any lighting that gave you any sense of excitement. too skimpy and of course they spread all the superbowl stuff over a 600+ square mile area. I saw what they did and it was nice but no real energy to me. What Indy has done is set the bar at a level that only cities with the stadium in their downtowns can probably do what we have done. Or will do here shortly. The lights are good. Just hope they become permanent

ablerock

January 18th, 2012, 05:59 PM

Just hope they become permanent

I emailed our downtown liaison about their permanence and expressed my hopes that they are. She agreed. She said she'd get back to me when she finds out their fate.

EddieB317

January 19th, 2012, 12:13 AM

I really do not see what the big fuss is about concerning these lights. They are nothing more than intelligent lighting common at any guitar center or sam ash across the nation... A cool effect? Ok maybe, but they are not even using scanners for crying out loud. Pulsating/chasing lights along the board walk or more interactive lighting like the Virginia avenue art project I would say great idea, but this is nothing more than a simplistic light show, and slightly cheesy at that.

I know the guys at Dodd personally and I can tell you that the moving lights they normally use are capable of much more than even the nicest lights at a national music shop.

DTI does lighting for national tours and broadway shows. They know their stuff and have the best gear.

What they are probably doing right now with the lights is setting up a program for the week of the super bowl. DTI knows that there will be lots of money roaming around and they want new business. They will likely take this opportunity to show off, and the lighting program will make sense when the event actually starts.

Also, big professional productions don't really use scanner lights; clubs do. Moving heads are much more durable, reliable, brighter, and versatile. I have setup 100's of national acts here in Indy and around the country and I cant remember the last time I hung a scanner from a truss. They are all martin or vari-light moving heads.

moochie

January 19th, 2012, 02:16 AM

Honestly those mounts don't look permanent, and the data cables look pretty awful.

I emailed our downtown liaison about their permanence and expressed my hopes that they are. She agreed. She said she'd get back to me when she finds out their fate.

ablerock

January 19th, 2012, 04:24 AM

Honestly those mounts don't look permanent, and the data cables look pretty awful.

Word. They look like they're just clipped onto banner poles. Who knows though. Maybe the city will be inspired to invest in a more permanent installation.

Round Rock

January 19th, 2012, 03:26 PM

Ice Skating Rink Building.

Has anyone cleaned the north face of the windows and brick that has all the deposits of minerals or whatever on the side that faces Georgia Street? That needs to be done. Someone should send and email if that hasn't been done yet.

moochie

January 22nd, 2012, 05:03 AM

GarfieldPark

January 22nd, 2012, 09:57 PM

I was downtown yesterday looking at a lot of the structures being put up along Georgia Street and in its vicinity. The white stains on parts of the bricks and windows of the northern ice skating building are still there. I don't know if it will get cleaned up. I kind of doubt it. I seriously think that with everything else going on in that area - and with all of the new structures going up - there will be very few people that will even notice the white stains. There's probably a chance that some of the giant advertising posters may cover a few of those areas up as well. We'll see.

moochie

January 23rd, 2012, 08:19 PM

Yup, I just went by, nothing has been done. It looks so awful that I'm guessing it will be covered with a banner of some sort.

I was downtown yesterday looking at a lot of the structures being put up along Georgia Street and in its vicinity. The white stains on parts of the bricks and windows of the northern ice skating building are still there. I don't know if it will get cleaned up. I kind of doubt it. I seriously think that with everything else going on in that area - and with all of the new structures going up - there will be very few people that will even notice the white stains. There's probably a chance that some of the giant advertising posters may cover a few of those areas up as well. We'll see.

GarfieldPark

January 23rd, 2012, 08:30 PM

I saw on my lunch hour that they are setting up the stage at the East end of the Super Bowl Village. It is right in front of Conseco Fieldhouse - where Georgia Street T's into Pennsylvania St. The stage is facing directly to the west - so people walking eastward will be walking right toward the stage. From looking at some of the maps I've seen, I believe the stage at Meridian and Georgia will be right on Meridian Street, just north of Georgia - facing south.

GarfieldPark

February 13th, 2012, 10:02 PM

Downtown officials outline future plans for Georgia Street

http://www.ibj.com/longterm-plan-for-georgia-street-rolled-out/PARAMS/article/32621

GarfieldPark

February 16th, 2012, 05:45 PM

This was posted in the general Indianapolis Development News thread -- but I'm putting it here as well.

Policies and guidelines have been established to demonstrate how streetfront patios, cafes, etc should look along the Georgia Street corridor. Below is a link to the document containing those guidelines:

http://www.indydt.com/GAStreeGuideFinal.pdf

moochie

May 10th, 2012, 09:18 PM

Can't believe no one's posted here since Feb 16th.. I guess documenting the problems on Georgia is too depressing for most of us.

From a mass email from Melissa Thompson, Georgia Street manager, IDI

------
I wanted to make you aware of an important Georgia Street parking update. Based on feedback we have received from many Georgia Street and Wholesale District representatives, IDI is working with IMPD and City DPW to eliminate metered parking on Georgia Street. The center block will still allow for designated motorcycle and electric vehicle parking. IMPD has posted signs and will be begin ticketing tomorrow morning. This will also help minimize the bollard and landscape damage. and West Blocks.

------

k2h

May 11th, 2012, 07:06 AM

Photos taken on Sunday, May 6th.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5340/7174571186_91d8155e20.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/k2h/7174571186/)
Indiana Trip - May 2012 321 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/k2h/7174571186/) by k2h2007 (http://www.flickr.com/people/k2h/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7236/7174571902_608541c72c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/k2h/7174571902/)
Indiana Trip - May 2012 322 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/k2h/7174571902/) by k2h2007 (http://www.flickr.com/people/k2h/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7087/7174573336_190a15e89f.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/k2h/7174573336/)
Indiana Trip - May 2012 326 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/k2h/7174573336/) by k2h2007 (http://www.flickr.com/people/k2h/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7219/7174575042_0052717b07.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/k2h/7174575042/)
Indiana Trip - May 2012 330 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/k2h/7174575042/) by k2h2007 (http://www.flickr.com/people/k2h/), on Flickr