Connecting Communities: Barriers and Murals Unite Fletcher Place and Fountain Square Neighborhoods

INDIANAPOLIS — The bridge above I-65 and I-70 connecting Fletcher Place and Fountain Square neighborhoods has undergone a transformation, making it safer for pedestrians to cross. New safety measures were installed on Saturday, featuring colorful paint barriers and messages of inspiration.

"The barriers were my baby," said Tucker Born, who led the $13,000 tactical urbanism project.

The new design reduces traffic to one lane, providing more space for walkers and bikers. "We know that narrower lanes slow people down," Born added.

Fountain Square Neighborhood Association Board Member Vince Reese noted that the area has been divided since the interstate was implemented half a century ago. The neighborhood raised half of the funding, with the city matching it.

Local residents and artists got creative, painting the barriers and murals along the way. "I'm making my neighborhood beautiful," said Elizabeth Ryan, who has lived in Fountain Square for 25 years. She believes the changes not only represent their cultural neighborhood but also boost morale.

"It helps to have stuff to look at – whether that's flowers, murals, public art – that keeps the bike ride or walk interesting," she said.

The barriers will remain in place from spring until fall, serving as a trial run with the city. If successful, they may become permanent features. "If it works well and improves the safety and connectivity of the neighborhood, then we can work with the city to create something permanent," Reese said.

Residents encourage others to take action and submit ideas for their own neighborhoods through the city's "community powered infrastructure" projects.