16 Tech is currently working to design and build a signature bridge over Fall Creek that will connect the 16 Tech Innovation District to Indianapolis’ nationally ranked research corridor while serving as an architectural centerpiece for the city.
About The
We know some basic information about the project: where the bridge will be, why a bridge is needed, and when the design and construction work are projected to occur.
But there’s a lot we still have to develop – and we need your input.
Where Will It Be?
Over 10th Street and Fall Creek from the IUPUI medical/research corridor
to the 16 Tech Innovation District.
See the bridge
location on
Google Maps.
View Map
location on
Google Maps.
Why A Bridge?
The bridge will span Fall Creek to create a direct physical connection between 16 Tech, the
IUPUI-hospital district and downtown Indy.
When Will This Happen?
The 16 Tech Bridge is expected to be celebrated in spring 2025
MARCH – MAY 2021
Schematic Design
In schematic design, we will work with feedback from 16 Tech and community members to develop the three
bridge proposals in greater detail.
JUNE – SEPTEMBER 2021
Design Development
Following schematic design, one bridge concept will be selected and advanced further through design
development. This proposal will be developed in intensive detail in advance of preparing necessary construction drawings.
What Will It Look Like?
There are a few values we really care about.
Connecting with people
At the end of the day, the bridge will be successful if people want to use it – to walk across it, to meet friends and colleagues on it, to share conversation and enjoy the views of Fall Creek. This is why stakeholder input is so important.
Thoughtful design decisions
We care about how this bridge will impact the surrounding area. We prioritize the design of lightweight structures in order to minimize our material and environmental impacts.
Connecting with place
We believe in honoring surrounding communities through the project; learning from community members allows us to better understand and affirm the values and identities of the many stakeholders around 16 Tech.
Project Updates
What we know
Bridge Location
Across Fall Creek – connecting the 16 Tech Innovation District to the IUPUI medical/research corridor off 10th Street.
What We're Exploring
Place
Understanding place means understanding a multitude of histories, experiences, and stories.
Needs
As a design team, we are committed to learning about the lived experiences of community
members; we believe in asking questions including:
‘What assets and values in your neighborhood are you most proud of?’ ‘What marks the heart of
your community?’ ‘How can design affirm the assets and knowledge that community members have
cultivated?’
Connection
The energy of any place comes from its people – its stewards and caretakers. The bridge can both
support and be informed by connections among community members.
Our Process
We are committed to an iterative design process centered around deep listening, accessible
information, and thoughtful conversations with community members.
DESIGN UPDATES BELOW
Please share your ideas and questions with us.
CONCEPT DESIGN UPDATES (MARCH 2021)
What we‘re hearing
In Concept Design, we hosted two community conversations, a month-long survey, an ongoing hotline, and a webpage feedback form to listen to community ideas, feedback, and questions.
From these two months of conversation, we‘ve heard these four design priorities for the16 Tech Bridge:
History and Heritage
Respond to the history, heritage, and visions for the future of adjacent neighborhoods and the mission of 16 Tech through the design
Safety and Accessibility
Create a space that is safe and accessible to all methods of mobility (pedestrians, scooters, wheelchairs, cyclists, people of different ages)
Trails and Connections
Build on efforts in Indianapolis to connect city and nature with trails for walking and cycling
Programming and Events
Integrate community programming into the bridge
How we‘re responding
We are exploring how the bridge can connect to history and 16 Tech’s mission through elements including:
• Historic markers
• Viewpoints to appreciate the social and natural history of the site
• Materials symbolic of history
We are emphasizing designs with dedicated space for bikes and pedestrians.
We are prioritizing how the 16 Tech Bridge will safely link to neighboring trails, share common design experiences, and also develop its own character.
We are exploring people-focused space so that programming/ events can be an opportunity for the bridge.
Get Involved
We are committed to an iterative design process centered around deep listening, accessible information,
and thoughtful conversations with community members.
The Team
Our team, led by schlaich bergermann partner, includes highly experienced and diverse partners who bring world-class global and local expertise to the project. More than 50% of the design contract is with MBE/ Minority Business Enterprise (PAU, Shrewsberry), disadvantaged, or women-owned/led businesses and organizations (Moniteurs, People for Urban Progress, Martha Schwartz Partners).
BRIDGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Marya Rose (Chief Administrative Officer, Cummins)
Vop Osili (City County Council President)
Dan Parker (Director, DPW, City of Indianapolis)
Adam Thies (Associate Vice President, Capital Planning, IU)
Bob Coy (President and CEO, 16 Tech Community Corporation)
Sherron Rogers (Chief Financial Officer & Chief Strategy Officer, Eskenazi Health)
Phyllis Boyd (Executive Director, Groundwork Indy)
Carlette Duffy (Flanner Homes Resident)
Kären Haley (Executive Director, Indianapolis Cultural Trail)
