The White River State Park is undergoing its largest extension to date, expanding the downtown Indianapolis greenspace by 13 acres along the western edge of the former GM Stamping Plant site. The project will transform this historic industrial site into a dynamic public riverfront destination.
Positioned atop a levee, the new park section will offer sweeping views of the city skyline and unique opportunities for river engagement, making it the first part of White River State Park to directly connect with the river. Key design features include a grand “river theater” overlooking the water, “get downs” for direct river access, multiple pavilions, a river beach, an extension of the White River Trail, and connections to the emerging Innovation District and the Valley Neighborhood. This space will become a new landmark for the city, unifying gathering spaces, performance areas, and observation points along the White River.
The levee infrastructure, essential for flood protection, is thoughtfully integrated into the design, ensuring both safety and access to the river. This project also reflects the legacy of George Kessler’s Park and Boulevard System, adding fresh, welcoming green space to the city’s heart while honoring Indianapolis’s rich history and providing fresh air and recreation for all.
Through collaboration with state and city agencies, REA and Land Collective have worked to preserve the levee’s structural integrity while creating an inclusive park design, aiming to reconnect people with the river and celebrate the river’s significance to the city and state. The extension represents a new chapter of investment and revitalization for downtown’s southwest quadrant, fostering community and environmental renewal in one of the city’s most iconic settings.