Members press for clearer funding, partnerships and training to implement Greenways plan

Committee members raised funding and implementation concerns, comparing Marion County to neighboring counties that use dedicated funding sources for parks and trails. One member asked whether Hamilton County’s business tax dedicated to parks explains its stronger trail funding; staff said they did not speak to that tax specifically and noted historical under‑taxing and underfunding in Indianapolis.

Members also flagged a separate implementation development: the MPO and a staff member reported preliminary commitments from Visit Indy to host a ‘‘business‑friendly trail center’’ that could work with businesses to open restrooms and amenities to trail users. Sawyers described planned internal training for city staff (engineers, planners) and outreach to developers so land‑use recommendations in the plan can influence rezoning and permit reviews. The committee formed shared Google Drive folders for community resources and policy recommendations to collect input.