Initiatives
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Background | Business Alliance | Farmers Market | Accessability | Beautification | Crime Watch | Schools
BackgroundIn the Fall of 2006 the BRAG area was selected as a GINI (Great Indy Neighborhoods Initiative) recipient which made funding and technical assistance available for three years to plan and implement quality of life enhancements. A QUALITY OF LIFE PLAN was prepared by working groups that formed as a result of a 2007 community wide visioning meeting.
Business Alliance
The BRAG Business Alliance was recently formed to offer support to BRAG area businesses through networking events and relationship-building. The Business Alliance will provide opportunities for business owners to develop new resources. At the events, networking attendees will meet potential customers and peers in informal settings. The BRAG Business Alliance goal is to preserve a productive and sustainable business environment in the BRAG area.
New businesses in the BRAG area have created hundreds of jobs in just a few short years. Supporting local businesses provides sustainability, customer loyalty and builds a strong community. BRAG Directory 2012
The BRAG Business Alliance Directory is now available here!
The BRAG Business Alliance publishes a directory twice a year. If you would like your business listed in the directory and on the BRAG website, please become a member of the BRAG Business Alliance. Information about membership levels is found on the Support BRAG page. You may contact Joe Pickard for additional information. Over 9000 household receive copies of the directory. The second edition of the Business Directory will go to press in early Spring, 2013. Contact Joe Pickard for details on how to become a member of the BRAG Business Alliance and get your business information delivered to 9800 homes in the BRAG area. |
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Binford Farmers Market
Located at 62nd and Binford Boulevard, the Binford Farmers Market provides a connection to over 130 vendors with deep roots in Indiana, including farms, nurseries, bakeries, wineries, meat and fish vendors, cheese makers, specialty food products and locally made artisan crafts. The Binford Farmers Market has been in existence since 2006 and has been a leader in the growth of locally sourced food in Central Indiana. The market offers free entertainment every Saturday morning and plenty of free parking.
The Binford Farmers Market is OPEN!
Every Saturday
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Questions? Contact info@binfordfarmersmarket.com
The Binford Farmers Market is OPEN!
Every Saturday
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Questions? Contact info@binfordfarmersmarket.com
Accessability - Trails, Sidewalks, and Connectivity
The initiative to develop multi-use trails came about from the surveys and community gatherings BRAG conducted during the three year GINI (Great Indy Neighborhoods Initiative) study. Survey results indicated that area residents thought that the lack of community connectivity was a significant concern. The INSTEPP (Indy Northside Sidewalks and Trails Engaging People with Places) committee was formed to address the issue.
Much of the BRAG area was built at a time when everything was designed around the automobile, so these destinations are safely accessible only by driving. Sidewalks and bike trails are virtually non-existent on our major thoroughfares.
The Indianapolis Department of Public Works (DPW) has received $1.2 million in federal funding to construct a multi-use path along 71st street from Binford Boulevard to Hague Road. The trail will increase pedestrian and bike safety and provide connectivity for area businesses and neighborhoods. We expect construction to begin in 2013.
The long term goal of INSTEPP is to build sidewalks and multi-use trails throughout the BRAG community, connecting neighborhoods both east and west of Binford Boulevard, and to provide safe crossings at all major intersections. The pathways identified in the INSTEPP plan are included in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization Regional Pedestrian Plan (2006) and are also listed under the “recommendations for pedestrian pathways” in that plan.
BRAG Supports the Complete Street Initiative
While BRAG's INSTEPP Committee works on projects to increase walking and biking infrastructure, we also have an eye toward future sustainability of these efforts. A movement is growing to "complete the streets" in communities across the country and here in Indiana. Click here to view a brief video on Complete Streets policies. States, cities and towns are passing Complete Streets policies to ensure that road networks are built and retrofitted to be safer, more livable, and welcoming to everyone. Indianapolis could be next! A coalition of local and statewide organizations has been working to achieve Complete Streets in Indianapolis. They will soon need our voice and support! Good news is that both the Indianapolis City-County Council and Mayor Greg Ballard have nodded their support for a strong Complete Streets ordinance.
When streets are designed only for cars, they threaten the independence of those in our community who do not, choose not, or can no longer, drive. Complete streets –those designed and operated to enable safe access for all users - allow pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and public transportation users of all ages and abilities to safely move along and across a street. Design elements that promote regular walking, cycling and transit use (such as sidewalks, crosswalks and pedestrian signals, median islands and accessible transit stops) are prioritized. The streets of Indianapolis are an important part of our community and a Complete Streets policy in Indianapolis will assure that walkers and bikers are considered in all transportation planning. Check back for updates on this important movement and to learn how to engage your voice!
Much of the BRAG area was built at a time when everything was designed around the automobile, so these destinations are safely accessible only by driving. Sidewalks and bike trails are virtually non-existent on our major thoroughfares.
The Indianapolis Department of Public Works (DPW) has received $1.2 million in federal funding to construct a multi-use path along 71st street from Binford Boulevard to Hague Road. The trail will increase pedestrian and bike safety and provide connectivity for area businesses and neighborhoods. We expect construction to begin in 2013.
The long term goal of INSTEPP is to build sidewalks and multi-use trails throughout the BRAG community, connecting neighborhoods both east and west of Binford Boulevard, and to provide safe crossings at all major intersections. The pathways identified in the INSTEPP plan are included in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization Regional Pedestrian Plan (2006) and are also listed under the “recommendations for pedestrian pathways” in that plan.
BRAG Supports the Complete Street Initiative
While BRAG's INSTEPP Committee works on projects to increase walking and biking infrastructure, we also have an eye toward future sustainability of these efforts. A movement is growing to "complete the streets" in communities across the country and here in Indiana. Click here to view a brief video on Complete Streets policies. States, cities and towns are passing Complete Streets policies to ensure that road networks are built and retrofitted to be safer, more livable, and welcoming to everyone. Indianapolis could be next! A coalition of local and statewide organizations has been working to achieve Complete Streets in Indianapolis. They will soon need our voice and support! Good news is that both the Indianapolis City-County Council and Mayor Greg Ballard have nodded their support for a strong Complete Streets ordinance.
When streets are designed only for cars, they threaten the independence of those in our community who do not, choose not, or can no longer, drive. Complete streets –those designed and operated to enable safe access for all users - allow pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and public transportation users of all ages and abilities to safely move along and across a street. Design elements that promote regular walking, cycling and transit use (such as sidewalks, crosswalks and pedestrian signals, median islands and accessible transit stops) are prioritized. The streets of Indianapolis are an important part of our community and a Complete Streets policy in Indianapolis will assure that walkers and bikers are considered in all transportation planning. Check back for updates on this important movement and to learn how to engage your voice!
Beautification
Meet Landscape Architect David Gorden
David Gorden, ASLA is a partner with Mark M. Holeman, Inc. and manages its design department. He is a graduate of the University of Illinois landscape architecture program and joined Mark M. Holeman, Inc. in 1990. He is a past president of the Indiana Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects and past member and chair of the Indiana Board of Registration for Architects and Landscape Architects.
Mark M. Holeman, Inc. is a full service landscape firm offering design, construction and maintenance capabilities to its many clients. Since 1965 it has been creating distinctive landscapes throughout central Indiana – from intimate perennial gardens to multi-acre estates to new commercial developments. Its office and 10 acre nursery are located on the far northeast side of Indianapolis.
Mark M. Holeman, Inc. - Landscape Architects and Contractors
7871 Hague Road, 849-3120, www.holemanlandscape.com
David Gorden, ASLA is a partner with Mark M. Holeman, Inc. and manages its design department. He is a graduate of the University of Illinois landscape architecture program and joined Mark M. Holeman, Inc. in 1990. He is a past president of the Indiana Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects and past member and chair of the Indiana Board of Registration for Architects and Landscape Architects.
Mark M. Holeman, Inc. is a full service landscape firm offering design, construction and maintenance capabilities to its many clients. Since 1965 it has been creating distinctive landscapes throughout central Indiana – from intimate perennial gardens to multi-acre estates to new commercial developments. Its office and 10 acre nursery are located on the far northeast side of Indianapolis.
Mark M. Holeman, Inc. - Landscape Architects and Contractors
7871 Hague Road, 849-3120, www.holemanlandscape.com
Skiles Test Nature Park and Woollens Gardens
During the summer of 2009 , Skiles Test Nature Park (STNP) obtained a new look as area residents and service groups came together to implement a new landscaping plan for the park entrance located on Fall Creek Rd near Shadeland Ave. Keeping with the nature park setting, David Gorden of Holeman Landscaping designed a new look for the entrance of the park to blend into the Nature Park theme. Phase 1 planted approximately 2000 native flowers and shrubs around the parking and trail area on Fall Creek Rd. Students at Skiles Test Elementary School along with neighbors living in the BRAG area participated in the planting organized by the Skiles Test Nature Park Board. This project was part of the State Farm Insurance Learning Assistance Funding awarded to Skiles Test Elementary.
Phase 2 was implemented on September 26, 2009. Led by Eagle Scout Willy Dimond and Eagle Scout Troop # 443 with assistance from the Roots and Shoots Group at Lawrence Central High School led by Biology teacher Ms. Kathy Madren, area BRAG neighbors, STNP Board members, and Skiles Test Elementary School students. This work comprised of building several natural stone areas, additional plantings of flowers and grasses, and general park clean up. This was funded by a GINI Starter Grant.
In the final phase additional native plants and several trees in the parking lot area. The Nature Park offers a natural setting for those families and individuals interested in walking in a natural area, hiking and biking in Skiles Test Nature Park and Woollens Gardens. It is also connected to the Indy Parks Greenways Biking and Hiking Trail through the northeast section of Indianapolis.
During the summer of 2009 , Skiles Test Nature Park (STNP) obtained a new look as area residents and service groups came together to implement a new landscaping plan for the park entrance located on Fall Creek Rd near Shadeland Ave. Keeping with the nature park setting, David Gorden of Holeman Landscaping designed a new look for the entrance of the park to blend into the Nature Park theme. Phase 1 planted approximately 2000 native flowers and shrubs around the parking and trail area on Fall Creek Rd. Students at Skiles Test Elementary School along with neighbors living in the BRAG area participated in the planting organized by the Skiles Test Nature Park Board. This project was part of the State Farm Insurance Learning Assistance Funding awarded to Skiles Test Elementary.
Phase 2 was implemented on September 26, 2009. Led by Eagle Scout Willy Dimond and Eagle Scout Troop # 443 with assistance from the Roots and Shoots Group at Lawrence Central High School led by Biology teacher Ms. Kathy Madren, area BRAG neighbors, STNP Board members, and Skiles Test Elementary School students. This work comprised of building several natural stone areas, additional plantings of flowers and grasses, and general park clean up. This was funded by a GINI Starter Grant.
In the final phase additional native plants and several trees in the parking lot area. The Nature Park offers a natural setting for those families and individuals interested in walking in a natural area, hiking and biking in Skiles Test Nature Park and Woollens Gardens. It is also connected to the Indy Parks Greenways Biking and Hiking Trail through the northeast section of Indianapolis.
Crime Watch and Prevention
Be the eyes and ears of your community!
Business Crime Watch efforts help area businesses. Residential Community Crime Watch efforts help local residents. It is important to contact IMPD IMMEDIATELY when a crime is taking place OR at the time suspicious activity is occurring. YOU SHOULD NOT CONFRONT PERPETRATORS, instead call 911 immediately. REMINDER: To report Non-Emergency/ Past Suspicious Activity call 317-327-3811. Police Satellite Office A police satellite office is located in the Ivy Way Professional Building, on 71st Street just west of Binford Boulevard. The office was created and managed by volunteers and is always in need of refreshments, soft drinks, candy, chips and snack donations for the police officers who stop by. Please deliver your donations to Peter Courtney at the Movable Feast 5741 E 71st, between 10 am and 4 pm Monday through Friday. |
Honoring Joe Komenda for his
work establishing the BRAG
Crime Watch Network
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Schools
The BRAG boundaries include parts of Washington Township and Lawrence Township. Both townships have energetic community involvement and solid, stable school systems that that serve students of all academic abilities. We are pleased that BRAG residents make a deliberate choice to live in the area so that their children may attend one of the outstanding public schools. Also in the BRAG area are a number of private parochial and private non-denominational schools.
We are so proud of our area schools…both public and private!
School News
Check back for School News.
We are so proud of our area schools…both public and private!
School News
Check back for School News.
Lawrence Township Schools
The ninth largest school district in the state, the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township serves just under 16,000 students. Throughout Indiana, Lawrence Township is recognized as a “lighthouse” school district, a reputation built over the years based on the district’s award-winning staff, high-achieving students, supportive community, innovative educational programs, and nationally recognized character education initiative.
The mission of the MSD of Lawrence Township is to empower all students with the knowledge, skills, compassion, and integrity needed to contribute and succeed as self-directed, life-long learners in a competitive global community. http://www.ltschools.org/home
Igniting the Power of Community – The Lawrence Township School Foundation The Lawrence Township School Foundation was established in 1983 to provide teachers in Lawrence Township with funding for programs that weren’t supported by tax dollars. Since then, the Foundation has contributed more than $3 million to support the education of Lawrence Township children. Today, the Foundation partners with the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township, connecting philanthropy and education to provide resources that empower our young people to reach their full potential. The Foundation is actively reaching out to our community to gain the financial support needed to fund critical programs now, and to ensure that Lawrence Township schools continue to remain strong. Their mission is to bring resources into the District so that ALL Lawrence Township children have the tools they need to succeed. Find out more about what the Lawrence Township School Foundation is doing in our community by visiting their website – www.msdltf.org.
“Vibrant communities support outstanding schools. Excellent schools establish vibrant communities.” http://www.ltschools.org/content/volunteer-initiative-program-1
Parents: Considering Lawrence Township Schools for your child? For information about Lawrence Township Schools, go to
http://www.ltschools.org/considering-msdlt/good-things
The mission of the MSD of Lawrence Township is to empower all students with the knowledge, skills, compassion, and integrity needed to contribute and succeed as self-directed, life-long learners in a competitive global community. http://www.ltschools.org/home
Igniting the Power of Community – The Lawrence Township School Foundation The Lawrence Township School Foundation was established in 1983 to provide teachers in Lawrence Township with funding for programs that weren’t supported by tax dollars. Since then, the Foundation has contributed more than $3 million to support the education of Lawrence Township children. Today, the Foundation partners with the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township, connecting philanthropy and education to provide resources that empower our young people to reach their full potential. The Foundation is actively reaching out to our community to gain the financial support needed to fund critical programs now, and to ensure that Lawrence Township schools continue to remain strong. Their mission is to bring resources into the District so that ALL Lawrence Township children have the tools they need to succeed. Find out more about what the Lawrence Township School Foundation is doing in our community by visiting their website – www.msdltf.org.
“Vibrant communities support outstanding schools. Excellent schools establish vibrant communities.” http://www.ltschools.org/content/volunteer-initiative-program-1
Parents: Considering Lawrence Township Schools for your child? For information about Lawrence Township Schools, go to
http://www.ltschools.org/considering-msdlt/good-things
MSD Washington Township Schools
Washington Township Schools
The Metropolitan School District of Washington Township (MSDWT) located in the northern section of Indianapolis and Marion County. It is a dynamic community with broad diversity in cultures, religions, ethnic groups, races and socioeconomic levels. MSDWT has been an educational leader in Indiana for the last 40 years.
MSDWT offers a comprehensive educational curriculum with special activities and programs geared to provide enrichment, exploration, and instructional support for students. MSDWT has the finest high school curriculum in the State of Indiana. It annually produces the highest number of students taking Advanced Placement exams and scoring high enough to earn college credits. The high school offers programs that allow students to earn the North Central Academic Honor Diploma and the Indiana Academic Honors Diploma.
MSDWT provides excellent opportunities for students to participate in outstanding performing arts, fine arts, academic teams, publications, athletics, and other student activities. North Central High School has the distinction of being Indiana's number two high school in the number of Indiana athletic championships.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
MSDWT is making transformational and systemic changes that enhance the teaching and learning for all Washington Township students. MSDWT's North Central High School was the first high school in Indiana to offer the International Baccalaureate program. Having hosted the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program for more than 20 years, the District is extending the International Baccalaureate (IB) to all of its elementary and middle school students, making it the first district-wide IB program in the state of Indiana.
Washington Township Schools Foundation
Since 1985, the Washington Township Schools Foundation has assisted in meeting the changing needs of our children. We have made a difference in their school lives by funding grants that provide innovative programs designed to enrich our curriculum. We also support professional development, staff recognition and projects that enhance district resources.
The Metropolitan School District of Washington Township (MSDWT) located in the northern section of Indianapolis and Marion County. It is a dynamic community with broad diversity in cultures, religions, ethnic groups, races and socioeconomic levels. MSDWT has been an educational leader in Indiana for the last 40 years.
MSDWT offers a comprehensive educational curriculum with special activities and programs geared to provide enrichment, exploration, and instructional support for students. MSDWT has the finest high school curriculum in the State of Indiana. It annually produces the highest number of students taking Advanced Placement exams and scoring high enough to earn college credits. The high school offers programs that allow students to earn the North Central Academic Honor Diploma and the Indiana Academic Honors Diploma.
MSDWT provides excellent opportunities for students to participate in outstanding performing arts, fine arts, academic teams, publications, athletics, and other student activities. North Central High School has the distinction of being Indiana's number two high school in the number of Indiana athletic championships.
International Baccalaureate (IB)
MSDWT is making transformational and systemic changes that enhance the teaching and learning for all Washington Township students. MSDWT's North Central High School was the first high school in Indiana to offer the International Baccalaureate program. Having hosted the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program for more than 20 years, the District is extending the International Baccalaureate (IB) to all of its elementary and middle school students, making it the first district-wide IB program in the state of Indiana.
Washington Township Schools Foundation
Since 1985, the Washington Township Schools Foundation has assisted in meeting the changing needs of our children. We have made a difference in their school lives by funding grants that provide innovative programs designed to enrich our curriculum. We also support professional development, staff recognition and projects that enhance district resources.
Heritage Christian
6401 East 75th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46250 849-3441 http://www.heritagechristian.net/ The Mission The Mission of Heritage Christian School is to glorify God through the discipleship of students and the pursuit of excellence in education with the Bible as the foundation and Jesus Christ as our focus. Vision Statement The vision of Heritage Christian School is to provide an outstanding spiritual and educational environment where, working with Christian families and churches, students will be thoroughly prepared to fulfill God’s purpose for their lives. |
St. Matthews School
4100 East 56th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46220 251-3997 http://www.saintmatt.org/school/ Principal - David Smock Saint Matthew Catholic School is a diverse, dynamic Roman Catholic community. Newcomers are welcomed into an environment where people of all ages can grow in faith and friendship. Saint Matthew Catholic School reflects this philosophy. We offer:
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