IndyParks gets $10 mil. Lilly grant

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The Lilly Endowment has awarded $10 million to upgrade 13 IndyParks properties – the largest single gift in the Indianapolis Parks Foundation’s history.

“Parks are essential elements of a healthy and fun community, said N. Clay Robbins, Lilly Endowment’s president and CEO. “ … The endowment is pleased to help the Indianapolis Parks Foundation in its efforts to enhance IndyParks’ amenities and programs.”

Several neighborhood parks will see improvements such as upgraded playground equipment, water spray grounds, walking trails, new restrooms and shelters. The grant will also support programming throughout the parks system.

Plans include:

• New amenities at Frank and Judy O’Bannon Soccer Complex.

• Playground upgrades, new shelters, water feature and more at Tarkington Park.

• Development of a recreational park at Wildwood Park greenspace.

• Concession and restroom upgrades at Chuck Klein Softball Complex.

"The City of Indianapolis is extremely grateful for Lilly Endowment's continued support of the Indianapolis Parks Foundation and consequently our parks system," Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard said. "Our strong relationship epitomizes the kind of public-private partnerships that will enable us to keep improving our amenities and services and enhancing quality of life and the park experience for our residents and visitors."