9 downtown projects that should (mostly) be ready for the city’s next Final Four events
Fans could have new places to stay and new things to see when the NCAA brings its marquee basketball championships back to Indianapolis in 2028 and 2029.
Downtown
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Fan fest offers kids — and adults — an opportunity to play
The event — part of the NCAA Final Four — features games, celebrity and athlete appearances and more at the Indiana Convention Center.
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IBJ Podcast: Mitch Daniels on bringing Purdue biz programs to downtown Indy; plus AI, Social Security
The former Indiana governor and president of Purdue University also addresses one of the biggest political, academic and economic debates of the last decade: What is the value of a college degree?
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IBJ Podcast: Downtown barbershop owner anticipating Final Four, new hotels, ‘big boom ahead’
As Red’s Classic Barber Shop claws its way back from the pandemic years, William Hogg is bullish on downtown development and says safety concerns shouldn’t be overblown.
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Culver’s to open first downtown Indianapolis location
This Culver’s will be a rarity for the Wisconsin-based chain because it won’t be in a stand-alone building and it won’t offer drive-thru service.
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Articles
Developers for several downtown projects see advantages in reusing older buildings
Developers have started or are planning several projects that will convert office space into hotels.
10 things to know about Final Four weekend
The Indiana Sports Corp., the NCAA, the Final Four Local Organizing Committee and other organizations have planned plenty of fan-friendly events — in addition to the games.
Georgia Street paved with asphalt — temporarily — ahead of Final Four weekend
A $9.1 million redevelopment of the street into mostly a park-like plaza was supposed to be done by now. But delays meant it wasn’t done for the Tip-Off Tailgate fan event.
City, stakeholders take steps to refresh overlooked Lugar Plaza
Surrounded by dense residential developments and workplaces, the plaza was a buzzy spot when it opened in 2018. Eight years later, it is more frequently a loitering spot, where people have been known to abuse drugs and alcohol.
Lucas Oil Stadium builds resume as a concert venue
Lucas Oil Stadium has lately been an across-the-board “yes” to concert planners more often than at any other time in the venue’s 19-year history.
Longtime GM of JW Marriott Indianapolis handing over the keys
Phil Ray, whose tenure at the largest hotel in Indianapolis include hosting 26 college basketball teams during the pandemic, plans to end his 41-year career in the hospitality industry this spring.
Simon family plans to combine S. Meridian St. buildings into single venue
The proposed redevelopment will mean the permanent closure of Bad Axe Throwing, which opened in 2017. The combined building is expected to feature a restaurant, bar and live music venue.
5 days of Final Four events include concerts, festivals
Free and low-cost options include the three-day March Madness Music Festival at American Legion Mall, the Men’s Final Four Fan Fest at the Indiana Convention Center, and a coffee and chocolate festival at the Stutz.
Chef Jonathan Brooks celebrates matriarchs as Milktooth shifts to Arlene’s
The new restaurant, which will offer a lunch format known as meat-and-three, was named for Brooks’ mother, Arlene.
Circle Tower acquired en route to AC by Marriott hotel conversion
The revamp of the historic, Art Deco building likely will begin by August, with completion set for 2027.
Indy stadium board distributes survey seeking feedback on Major League Soccer effort
Indianapolis has been in pursuit of an MLS club since April 2024, when Mayor Joe Hogsett announced the city’s intent to use the Indianapolis Downtown Heliport in a stadium and mixed-use district.
Coworking company COhatch says deal in place to stay at Circle Centre amid rent dispute
Hendricks Commercial Properties earlier this month sued Columbus, Ohio-based COhatch, claiming the firm has failed to pay nearly $180,000 in rent at its downtown Indianapolis location.
Key state lawmaker casts doubt on Indianapolis’ aspirations for MLS stadium
For the second time in as many months, a state lawmaker is questioning the city’s chances of financing a potential Major League Soccer stadium.
COhatch facing eviction as Circle Centre owner alleges missed payments
A representative for COhatch Indy said the company hopes to resolve its dispute with with Hendricks Commercial Properties imminently.
BBQ and seafood restaurant expected to open in downtown Hyatt Place/Hyatt House hotel
The Alcoholic Beverage Board of Marion County recently approved a license for the Kentucky-based restaurant, which will take over a space formerly occupied by Pier 48 Fish House & Oyster Bar.
Harrison exhibit challenges visitors to recommit to our founding values
The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site display that honors three members of the Harrison family coincides with the nation’s celebration of 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
IU, Purdue campus investments will reshape downtown
Since IUPUI split in July 2024, Indiana University and Purdue University have poured hundreds of millions of dollars into their respective downtown campuses to grow programs and attract students.
State Sen. Andrea Hunley, possible 2027 Indy mayoral candidate, won’t seek reelection
“Our city needs bold leadership to be a world class destination for people to work, play, study, and stay,” the Indianapolis Democrat said in a Friday news release. “I am not going anywhere.”
Soup shop near Monument Circle closed as 2026 arrived
Small Batch Soups, a business founded in 2014, served its final customers on the first floor of Circle Tower on Dec. 31.