Far Eastside Quality of Life Plan Taking Shape
The Far Eastside Quality of Life Plan, funded by LISC, is moving from community input to concrete action, as residents and leaders gather to turn months of feedback into a working roadmap.
Momentum continues to build around the Far Eastside Quality of Life Plan, as community leaders, residents, and stakeholders recently gathered to map out the next phase of this transformative initiative funded by LISC. The convening marked a critical step in moving from community input to actionable strategy.
“This is the heart of the quality of life plan,” said Britt Redd, founder and CEO of Ubuntu Planning Studio. “Today is about creating the actual work plan—identifying specific actions, goals, and how we measure progress.”
Over the past several months, organizers have collected extensive feedback from residents, analyzing both lived experiences and technical data. Now, that input is being translated into a comprehensive roadmap focused on interconnected issues such as land use, health, and community perception.
“We’ve learned the issues are interconnected, so the solutions must be as well,” Redd explained.
“What’s important is that it’s inclusive of our neighbors…filled with hope for a better quality of life. At the end of the day, we will have a document filled with our ideas and aspirations.”
— Annie Smith, resident
For residents like Annie Smith, the process represents something deeper—a long-awaited opportunity for voices to be heard. “What’s important is that it’s inclusive of our neighbors…filled with hope for a better quality of life,” she said. “At the end of the day, we will have a document filled with our ideas and aspirations.”
City leaders also recognize the significance of this moment. Ben Tapper, Chief Diversity and Equity Officer for the City of Indianapolis, emphasized the importance of collaboration. “You’ve got residents, community organizations, and the city all in the room…that co-creating is integral to this process,” he noted.
While outcomes will ultimately be shaped by the community, Tapper stressed that sustained engagement will determine long-term success. “The collaboration and commitment can’t stop when the plan is finalized,” he said.
With a draft plan expected soon and finalization on the horizon, the Far Eastside stands at a pivotal moment—one driven not by outside forces, but by the collective vision of the community itself.
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