INDIANAPOLIS (Sept. 19, 2024)— In a significant victory for Eastside residents, the State of Indiana announced the transfer of the former Indiana Women’s Prison property to the City of Indianapolis. The 15-acre site, located at 401 N. Randolph St., will now fall under the city’s Department of Metropolitan Development, offering community members a greater voice in shaping the future.

State Senator Andrea Hunley (D-Indianapolis), who represents the district, celebrated the news as a testament to grassroots advocacy.

“This is what it looks like when community members come together to advocate for something,” said Hunley. “It’s a powerful example of neighbors and neighborhoods uniting, raising their voices and forming coalitions.”

Hunley also thanked the Indiana Department of Administration and Commissioner Dr. Rebecca Holwerda for their work in finalizing the deal.

“Now, the real work begins,” Hunley added, stressing the importance of a strategic plan for the site, which impacts multiple neighborhoods.

The city is expected to engage with local residents as they move forward with the development plans for the property. Hunley expressed confidence in the city’s commitment to community input.

“I trust the city will involve the neighbors in this process, as they’ve successfully done with other redevelopment projects,” she said.

The former prison site represents an important opportunity for Eastside revitalization, and community input will play a central role in determining its future use.