This project encompassed the reworking of one and one-half miles of the deteriorated Central Canal in downtown Indianapolis. Planned in 1828 as part of the Wabash and Erie Canal System, the area had become one of the largest tracts of underutilized land in downtown Indianapolis. Browning Day Mullins Dierdorf Architects participated in writing the Urban Mass Transit Authority Grant, which made the project possible. BDMD set the design theme as "Contemporary Italianate" and generated the design standards that address land use, architectural style, massing, setbacks, density, signage and landscape design. To increase frontage available for development the canal was lowered 12 feet, and its alignment is occasionally altered to create visual complexity and interest. BDMD continues to be involved in the enhancement of the canal as it transitions to become one of the city's Cultural Districts.
 

Awards:

1988 Beautification Award – The Commission for Downtown

1988 Honor Award – Indiana Chapter, American Society of Landscape Architects