What do you think of the Circle Truss proposal? The 280-foot-tall, $10-million stainless steel structure, designed by
Kevin K. Parsons & Associates Inc., would be lined with LED lights lit with colors that could change for special occassions
or at the request of visitors to a Web site. The monument effort got a fundraising boost recently, when the Efroymson Fund
gave the planners $50,000 to pay for final designs. The effort, led by Rotary Club of Indianapolis, needs to raise a total
of $300,000 to cover design costs for the monument at 11th and West streets. Advocates have promised to use only private funds
for the venture. They hope the city, state or feds might eventually pitch in some funding to re-route roads around the project.
The proposal was reported first in IBJ in January. That story is here. Thanks to IBJ's Jennifer Whitson for the update.
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Welcome to Property Lines, Indy's source for neighborhood real estate news. Your host is Scott Olson, IBJ's real estate beat
reporter. Edited by Cory Schouten.
What do you think of the Circle Truss proposal? The 280-foot-tall, $10-million stainless steel structure, designed by
Kevin K. Parsons & Associates Inc., would be lined with LED lights lit with colors that could change for special occassions
or at the request of visitors to a Web site. The monument effort got a fundraising boost recently, when the Efroymson Fund
gave the planners $50,000 to pay for final designs. The effort, led by Rotary Club of Indianapolis, needs to raise a total
of $300,000 to cover design costs for the monument at 11th and West streets. Advocates have promised to use only private funds
for the venture. They hope the city, state or feds might eventually pitch in some funding to re-route roads around the project.
The proposal was reported first in IBJ in January. That story is here. Thanks to IBJ's Jennifer Whitson for the update.
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Laura-the festivals and tastings are free. What does is strengthen the sense of community with activities. What are those empty lots doing for the Village? it's sad you can't see the good that this progress can do for the area. No one is requiring anyone to shop there. I guess you'd rather see a Dollar store move in or no, we'd rather see the property stand empty b/c change is out of the question.
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Read down to the part about Brizzi. Someone needs to subpoena his "purchases" of Red RockPictures and Cellstar and his corresponding bank records, I mean c'mon, I'd like to see his alcohol usage records, too. http://diana-vice.blogspot.com/2011_01_01_archive.html
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Wonder if my neighborhood can advertise our "retention" pond and act like it is a beach too?
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a new record at the '11 salebration until they realized that it was a futile effort to get their crapwagon moter and crapwagon car up speed. And then they just quietly slunk off into the night and never spoke of it again. Nothing to see here folks.
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millions for putting a company's bumper sticker on one of its Lolas. But you gotta take what you can get.
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I'm not crazy about the Circle Truss. In trying to remember the other contestants, I think my favorite option was the pole lights at the 4 gateway corners of downtown. And in retrospect, that would have tied in well with the Cultural Trail lighting scheme.
circus feel I get from it. . .like the circle ball motorcyclists ride in at
a circus show. Or one of the thrill rides at Cedar Point. Is this thing hail proof?
I'm also against any sort of gateway arch over the street. Taking a page from The Urbanophile's book, I'll say this: If you're someplace worth being, you shouldn't need a gateway to tell you that you've arrived
I have read your multiple posts on the Indystar.com website and your always saying your moving back to Indy from Phoenix and how awful it is there and how much Indy has to offer and how we should appreciate what we have. What has changed your attitude or did you leave Phoenix and find a true utopia?
And Ryan, you said what you had to say. You seemed like you were taking a jab at me for what I stated was true. I guess you were entirely bored with the concept of keeping your comments to yourself rather than direct them to me specifically. I only stated a few things that were true about Indy's lifestyle as of today. Of course, I already know how Indy is today. I visit the city two times a year. I already know what is going on downtown. As far as I know, things are just about the same as they were two years ago when I moved out of downtown. Yes when I visit, I have a great time because I get to see my friends and family, but do I get shocked or surprised by what's going on downtown? NO. Everything is still the same, and please don't give me the lecture on how new developments are happening, because they surely don't excite me much. They are only just condo developments, and more hotels. WOOPTEEDOOOOOOOOOO. Big deal. Get over it.
I know you might be responding to this and tell me more of your disagreement to what I just said, but just remember that I will definately take it as flattery. You're just upset because someone doesn't see it the way you do. Have a good one!
1. Insisting only on local designers. I'd certainly prefer local designers, all things being equal. But, with a few notable exceptions, the designs local architects, artists, and designers have created for the city have been bland and uninspiring. Contrast this with, oh, the rest of the world where every aspiring city is hiring internationally renowned, Pritzker Prize willing architects to design their signature structures. I've got my own problems with starchitecture, but the Indianapolis way is not the solution.
2. It completely ignores the city's most important black heritage corridor. With Indiana Ave and the Walker Theater, MLK Street and Crispus Attucks High School, this would be the perfect location for a black heritage themed gateway to anchor a revitalized MLK corridor and connect it more closely to downtown. It is shocking to me to see that there was zero consideration of this in the design or RFQ.
I already wrote up an extensive posting on this design previously, should you care to read it.
http://theurbanophile.blogspot.com/2007/01/circle-truss-selected-for-new-indy.html
Too bad you can't see some degree of positive in Indy's improvements. While it may not be newsworthy or notable in many circles, there are many investments in downtown. Rather you just dismiss it all as void of worth. Sounds like Indy may be better off without you. Enjoy, whereever you go, as long as it's somewhere else.
I agree with your suggestion of a DNA-strand design theme, if this gets built. It also ought to be loaded with solar panels so that it powers itself and puts something back into the grid.
That said...ten million bucks would finish ten to twenty miles of Greenways Trails radiating out from the Cultural Trail and create better connections between the first ring suburban areas and downtown.
I'd rather live in (and show off) a city that promotes its coolness factor around fitness and revitalization of conveniently-located inner-ring neighborhoods than around gigantic donuts.
Of the other entries in little 'competition' they had, this was my favorite. I seem to recall liking one of the designs better, but at the end of the day I thought this one IS a circle and we ARE the 'circle city'. What I would have liked to have seen is something taller. 280ft IS very tall, but it won't be as prominent as the Arch or the Space Needle. Of course we don't have the kind of money to build 500ft+ structures like those.
Here's what I say: If they can get the height over 300ft, make it look less like a roller-coaster, and keep it privately funded, I'm all for it...oh and come up with a catchier name!! I guess we'll see when they release the final plans.....
Why not invest this money into revitilizing more neighborhoods and fixing up boarded up buildings?
I recognize, of course, that this is idealistic and very naive. For example, I know everyone here would like to see better architecture in Indianapolis, but I know I don't have a lot of time to do more about it than just discuss it here. I only hope someone who DOES have time is listening...
Or..maybe I'm just easily amused...ha ha
I'm still trying to figure out how in the hell Columbus fits in the same sentence with New York and Chicago??? Give me a beak. Just goes to show how much stock any of us should put in your post.
The Old Northside or Lockerbie square could very much so be compared to many of the neighborhoods in Columbus. Though I do think our neighborhoods could use more cafes and clubs.
The biggest differences, other than something like sports teams, however, are these: Columbus has Ohio State University - which is massive and tends to be a focus of many people's lives (not in a good way) - and a reason for many graduates to stay in the area. Indy has no university that comes close - and IU and Purdue sure don't count...
Also, Columbus, unlike Indy - has major and desirable upscale suburban areas on the west (Dublin, etc..), to the north (Worthington, Westerville, etc..) and to the east (New Albany, etc...). Incoming execs would just as likely move to Dublin or Upper Arlington as they would to New Albany - whereas Indianapolis is 100% focused to the N/NE - to all the ridiculously fast growing suburbs we all know. In a few years, Indy will one big north suburb with nothing else... - while Columbus will grow in many directions.
Finally, Columbus is the state capital - like Indy - but FAR from the largest city in the state, despite what residents and city officials will tell you. Indy is far and away the biggest Hoosier city, regardless of the measure --- which means something with regards to the focus those outside of Columbus have.. The Columbus metro area (the only real # you can use in how big your city is) is the third largest in the state - just about 1/2 the size of the Cleveland area and 2/3 the size of Cincinnati - though they'll say their the biggest city in Ohio) which, technically, is true - but only as it relates to actual city of Columbus boundaries... Indy can be faulted for claiming they're the 12th largest city in America, too -- as it's simple not true as it relates to anything more than city boundaries). Therefore, in the minds of Ohioans outside of Columbus, Columbus is almost a joke --- while those in Columbus think it's pretty much the greatest city on earth... (Laughable). Unfortunately, Indy residents - many at least - feel exactly the same way about Indy.
With all that said - give me Pittsburgh or Cleveland or St. Louis - or another midwestern city with a little more soul and a little more diversity - over either of this milquetoast burgs... Sorry.
I've said it before and I will say it again. Live in Indy for a while... eventually it becomes a big snore... Whatever new thing you see or hear of... it's usually something similar to what has already been done in the area. For example... OH... A NEW CONDO BUILDING!! Woopee... that's become to redundant. OH... A NEW HOTEL BUILDING!! *snore* OH... architecture???? *SNORE* As for the Cultural Trail... kudos... I absolutely love that concept, but unfortunately, that is not enough... for downtown.
The Circle Truss is not impressive, would be seen for a brief millisecond (and largely obscured by the concrete retaining walls if the interstates), and have the unmistakable look of something that the best can be said of it is that it would be easy to dismantle. There is precisely zero urban design concept for this city, as it appears to visitors (and residents, for that matter). We have no signature skyline, and nothing that tells approaching drivers that they are in a place indistinguishable from Columbus, Dayton, or a dozen other flat-as-a-flitter Midwest cities. No, a truss is something you hold in a hernia with, and its location at 11th Street makes zero sense.
Now, what if they built smaller ones as a gateway over each interstate approach to the downtown? Hmmm. Still thinkin' on that...
You are ridiculous and should keep your absurd posts off this blog.
Chicago has the Sears Tower, St. Louis has The arch, Seattle has the Space Neetle. It just would be cool if we had more than just Indy 500, Colts, and Pacers as what people think of, when they think of INDY.
The Truss looks like the circus is in town
It provides no real function and appears out of place like the giant ferris wheel in London.
I agree with previous comments that the money and effort would be spent better elsewhere.
Let's put an end, please, to comments that the money could be put to better use like light rail, fixing neighborhoods, etc.
What? The Rotary Club should wait for some hazy future city/state effort to build a meaningful mass transit system?
What? The Rotary Club should hand money over to neighborhood associations for improvements, and trust that fairness, accountability and integrity will occur in each project?
They hope the city, state or feds might eventually pitch in some funding to re-route roads around the project.
They hope the city, state or feds might eventually pitch in some funding to re-route roads around the project.
They hope the city, state or feds might eventually pitch in some funding to re-route roads around the project.
They hope the city, state or feds might eventually pitch in some funding to re-route roads around the project.
Let's stop trying to put lipstick on the pig and work on fixing the pig. If private industry has this kind of money to throw around for something goofy like this that serves NO purpose whatsoever, then maybe they should be paying more in taxes to help support the community, or giving to philanthropic projects that will actually help people.
This, IMHO, does nothing for the city or its inhabitants.
Comparing this design to a 'broken roller coaster' or circus ride is absurd and shows your ignorance. Wanting to incorporate the life science (DNA) motif or African American significance is understandable; due to location; but Indianapolis isn't just one little corner or intersection... it isn't where hospital meets intersection; meets university meets motor speedway; meets circle... you get the point.
12th largest city in the world and growing; that's impressive. An opinion above states this city is boring and uninspired; yet here's a design, representing again -- what Indianapolis IS known for/as around the country, The Circle City.
Someone mentioned metal; easy to disassemble. I think the translucent structure of the Gateway is more imaginative and grandeur than any concrete, stone building or statue could be.
The interstates are in poor condition; having now moved from Indiana I often think back to the horrible holes and cracks on I-70 and 465; the poorly designed overpasses and entrances; and yet under constant construction. Are there worries about funding; private or not...sure! These concerns are all on some list for city councils.
But, this is a proposal to add a gateway, welcoming that bandwagon to Indianapolis every May for race month! Inspiring travelers heading east across country they've never experienced.
Get over your opinions of mediocrity. Adding round-a-bouts to the circulation system of downtown is long-over-due.
I also noticed a reference/comparison to the London Eye. What a compliment. Although the comment was describing the eye as being out of place/an eyesore... how foolish you are. The Gateway could benefit from having a place for taking photographs of the skyline; I agree. Yet, park down at White River Park, near the museums and you can get the best shots of the city. I recommend spring; the blossoms are beautiful; the grass is green; and the city is calm.
Best of luck to the fundraisers; God Bless you! To the architects and designers: brilliant! To the inhabitants: get ready for change!
Perhaps if the community, the state, and the nation actually had the courage to adopt the Fair Tax, we could get the IRS, the congress, and the Fisher's Gals out of our pockets forever. We should at least give credence to those who are trying to have positive ideas for the community.
Who knew the Rotarians were masters of satire?
Yes, it is really that bad.
Indianapolis is not the 12th largest city in the world. It's 12th largest in this COUNTRY.
person who can appreciate art. We are the circle city, and this represents our
image.
Who said they hope to get federal funding---the media-- not the actual designers.
City Girl 13 does seem to get it all!!! Indianapolis does has a lot to offer.
It seems a lot of the bloggers are speaking before they know the facts and truly
can not see the bigger picture.
Freedom of speech is important. But If you are spending your time on these blogs just to argue and put each other down, I feel sorry for you. You need to gain some perspective and maturity!
LibertyBell, you mention the truss being poorly sited... To my recollection, the site was predetermined for this design contest by the rotary club.... Do not fault the architects for the positioning of their vision.
OpenMinded, your comments are very well received! ...on another note, I can't believe someone has the nerve to pick on a blogger for their taste in music.
Kudos again to the architect leading this project! What outstanding commentaries you have already provoked throughout the city...without intention!
http://www.bsu.edu/capic/gateways/projects/rotary/rfp_boards.html
The Triumph statue is pretty silly, but that presentation is worth looking at for their very logical and feasible redesign of the on/off ramp structure (in contrast to the absurd design in Gateway Circle). I also like that several of the plans include extending the canal walk up to 16th St.
If you needed to buy food for your children, you wouldn't go out and spend all your money on carnival games, would you? That's what I mean. It just doesn't make sense when the city is in fiscal crisis. That's far from liberal.
private funds 15 years from now. If this is built it WILL eventually be a
tax burden. I love the idea of the Cultural Trail, but it too
will be a tax burden in coming years, and from someone who's inner
city street and sidewalk hasn't been maintained or replaced since 1989
because the city can't find the funds to do so, I don't see how it will
cough up tax dollars for something like this.
Sing praises and alms, peon!
eliminated and nullified.
The city should lead and not just except whatever is
thrown at it. This truss is poorly sited and in no way
relates to the Circle just because it has a similar shape.
The Circle itself is problematic in that many visitors
seem to be astonished at how difficult it is to find it and
then are disappointed when they see it is really small
and hidden - you can't see it from anywhere, except
straight on and even then it is not obvious. I have had
people on Market Street two blocks away - looking
right at it - asking me where it was and not realizing that
was all there was to it. As usual with Indy, the hype never
matches reality.
Yeah, the truss is private money and the cultural trail is
private money, but again, the city should encourage those
private funds be leveraged to provide for basic needs.
Developers never have any problem asking the city (taspayers
to kick in some dough for whatever development scheme
crosses their mind. I just can not stand watching sidewalks get ripped up when there are extensive gaps in the existing sidewalk
network that they money could build or repair. Frankly, tom e
building something like the cultural trail and every other
supposedly high concept project is a slap in the face to
citizens who need to have a functional city before they
have a fun city.