INDIANAPOLIS—Newfields is planning significant upgrades to its Virginia Fairbanks Art and Nature Park.
In an announcement Saturday, Newfields said it had received more than $21 million dollars in grants and gifts to make the project possible.
"Newfields is committed to strategic, impactful and sustainable growth that benefits the Indianapolis community," said Chief Executive Officer Dr. Charles Venable. "With these key infrastructure improvements, new contemporary art commissions and the addition of the Harvest Festival, we will be able to welcome more people to Newfields for exceptional experiences with art and nature."
Changes that will come quickly include new bike paths and walking trails to better connect Fairbanks Park to the Canal Towpath, Michigan Road and Newfields upper campus.
There will be additional parking, security, restrooms and a new artful Play Zone for families.
These projects are part of a 30 year master plan announced by Newfields in 2017.
Newfields is located at West 38th Street and Michigan Road in Indianapolis.
It includes the Indianapolis Museum of Art, The Garden, Lilly House and the Fairbanks Art and Nature Park.
Of the $21 million dollars in grants and gifts, $10 million is from the Richard Fairbanks Foundation, $8 million from the Lilly Endowment, $3 million from Newfields Trustee Kent Hawryluk, $500,000 from the Indianapolis Department of Public Works, and $100,000 each from Edgar Fehnel and the Nina Mason Pulliam Cheritable Trust.
