The SEND Website has lots to offer

The SEND Website has lots to offer

By: Jeff Miller

If you are looking for a bountiful resource of information on what is happening in the greater southeast side, make sure to check out http://www.sendcdc.org/publicspace.html . SEND is very well known for its economic development initiatives, housing programs, and of course Fab 4 Less. However, what has become a major focus in recent years is public space. And the website is a great way to learn about all of the initiatives being undertaken. In particular, you can learn about the following:

• Infrastructure Assessment: We are undergoing an area-wide survey of our streets and sidewalks. Currently, you can view info on the SECO area which was the pilot site. More info will be added as the survey continues.
• Neighborhood Resource Guide: This document contains contact info for all of the organizations you need to know such as Health and Hospital, Keep Indy Beautiful, Recycling locations, Police, Zoning, etc.
• Master Plan: This valuable map of the area shows Bike Routes, Greenways, the upcoming Cultural Trail, possible locations for Public Art, and current IndyGo Bus Routes. This allows us to plan for the future needs of the area.
• Engagement Map: Our most valuable asset is without a doubt the people that call our neighborhoods home. This map is a visual representation of all registered neighborhood organizations, block clubs, crime watches, etc in the SEND area.
• Maintenance Plan: The maintenance plan facilitates a regular inspection process to ensure proper maintenance is occurring on our streets, sidewalks, sewers, and other public facilities. Our goal is attractive, well-maintained public spaces that serve as a source of community pride.
• Pleasant Run: An amenity that slowly meanders through the SEND catchment area is the Pleasant Run Greenway. Watch for beautification efforts to continue in the future, as our goal is to make the trail something that people are proud of and consider a true asset to the community.
• Public Art: Art and culture are two of the defining elements of the Southeast Side. There are two key groups that are focused on making our area an artful destination: The Public Space Art Sub-Committee and the Fountain Square Arts Council (FSAC). These groups are truly making a marked impact on the area.

So if any of these items seem interesting to you, then visit the website to learn more. Or, better yet, come to a monthly Public Space meeting. They happen every first Tuesday of the month at the SEND headquarters (1030 Orange Street) at 12:00 pm. You can contact Public Space Chairman Jeff Miller at jeff030167@indy.rr.com or 917-0545 for more details. Together, we can make the Southeast side a better place to live!