NOBLESVILLE NICKEL PLATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Nickel Plate Trail Master Plan City of Noblesville, Indiana
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The development of the Nickel Plate Trail Master Plan marks an important step forward in Noblesville’s ongoing commitment to connectivity, quality of life, and placemaking. This plan reflects the shared vision of a community working together to enhance mobility, recreation, and the everyday experiences of its residents and visitors. The City of Noblesville would like to express its sincere appreciation to the many individuals and groups who contributed their time, expertise, and passion to this effort: Mayor Chris Jensen for his leadership and commitment to a bold and vibrant future for Noblesville. City of Noblesville Departments including the Engineering, Planning, Utility, and Parks and Recreation departments, whose collaboration and technical expertise were instrumental throughout the planning process. Project Steering Committee for providing valuable direction, feedback, and vision to guide the plan’s development. Community Stakeholders and Residents whose participation in public meetings, surveys, and community events brought energy, creativity, and authenticity to the planning process. Your voices shaped a trail that is uniquely Noblesville. This master plan is the result of a collaborative and community-driven effort. With this shared foundation, the City may realize the vision of the Nickel Plate Trail and continue to invest in a more connected, healthy, and welcoming Noblesville.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
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PROJECT OVERVIEW
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TRAIL FRAMEWORK
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RECOMMENDATIONS
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VISION PRINCIPLES EXISTING CONDITIONS PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
DISTRICTS CASE STUDIES
NODES PROGRAMMING, CROSS SECTIONS, & PLAN DEVELOPMENT ZONING
TRAIL DEVELOPMENT & AMENITIES 81
DEVELOPMENT GUIDELINES TRAIL AMENITIES WAYFINDING FUNDING
APPENDIX
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GETTING STARTED PROJECT OVERVIEW
PROJECT OVERVIEW The future Nickel Plate Trail is where people
live, work, and connect.
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Shaping the Vision of the Nickel Plate Trail The Nickel Plate Trail Master Plan is a strategic effort to shape the future of a transformative corridor in Noblesville. The City is looking beyond the existing asphalt path to understand and guide how the surrounding areas can grow and evolve in ways that benefit the entire community. Extending from the Midland Trace Trail connection at Hague Road to the Pleasant Street Extension and South 10th Street, this corridor has the potential to influence how Noblesville moves, grows, and connects. The Nickel Plate Trail can be more than a recreational amenity. It plays a critical role in creating a more complete and accessible transportation network and offers a vital connection between neighborhoods, schools, parks, and employment centers, helping to expand access and improve mobility for residents of all ages and abilities.
economic development. The master plan will help guide future growth along the corridor in a way that strengthens nearby neighborhoods, attracts reinvestment, and supports Noblesville’s broader planning goals. By planning proactively, Noblesville can ensure that the Nickel Plate Trail becomes a defining feature of the city—one that supports mobility, economic vitality, and a high quality of life for years to come. Four key goals are established as part of the Nickel Plate Trail master plan, which include the following: 1. Recreation and Transportation 2. Smart Growth 3. New Destinations 4. Connecting with the White River
Equally important, the trail has the potential to shape thoughtful land use and encourage
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COMPLETE RECREATION AND TRANSPORTATION NETWORK
Recreation and Transportation At the heart of the Nickel Plate Trail is a commitment to building a complete recreation and transportation network. It will offer safe, comfortable connections between parks, downtown, and nearby neighborhoods making active transportation a more viable and attractive choice for everyday trips. Whether for fitness, commuting, or leisure, the trail is envisioned as a public amenity that promotes health, access, and mobility.
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SMART GROWTH
Smart Growth The trail also supports smart growth by guiding development in a way that is both sustainable and strategic. By concentrating infrastructure investment along the corridor, the Nickel Plate Trail will encourage walkable, mixed-use development that complements existing neighborhoods and preserves the community’s unique character. It will foster economic opportunity while maintaining a compact urban footprint.
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NEW DESTINATIONS
New Destination More than a pathway, the trail will help create new destinations throughout the city. From pocket parks and trailheads to public art installations and gathering spaces, the trail will act as a spine for community life and cultural expression. It will enhance the vibrancy of downtown and catalyze reinvestment in underutilized areas, while offering residents and visitors memorable places to meet, relax, and explore. These new destinations will reflect Noblesville’s creativity and charm, turning the trail into an experience as much as a route.
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LIVING WITH THE RIVER
White River The Nickel Plate Trail will reflect Noblesville’s deep and lasting relationship with the White River. By connecting to the riverfront and aligning with river-centered initiatives, the trail will highlight the ecological and recreational value of this natural asset. Interpretive elements, scenic overlooks, and green infrastructure will encourage residents to engage with the river in meaningful ways. The trail will be both a physical and symbolic link between Noblesville’s historic core and its natural amenity.
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GUIDING PRINCIPLES The project’s guiding principles for trailoriented development reflect Noblesville’s vision for how the Nickel Plate Trail can shape the future of the corridor and surrounding areas. Development along the trail should prioritize walkability, safety, and accessibility for residents and visitors. It should support environmental improvement through sustainable design, enhanced green spaces, and preservation of natural resources. The trail corridor is an opportunity to create vibrant places that encourage social interaction, public life, and a strong sense of community identity.
By fostering access to recreation, nature, and everyday destinations, trail-oriented development should enhance the overall quality of life. Finally, the trail is positioned to support economic development by attracting investment, encouraging mixed-use growth, and strengthening connections between neighborhoods and business districts.
TRAIL-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT (TROD) OVERVIEW
People-Centric Environmental Improvement
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Vibrant Places
Quality of Life Drives Talent Attraction & Retention
Economic Development
Elements of a Success Project The success of the Nickel Plate Trail will be driven by tools that ensure its continued value and impact over time. A clear commitment to long-term vision and goals will guide decision-making and keep the trail aligned with the broader aspirations of the community. Ongoing community outreach will help maintain public support, gather input, and ensure the trail remains responsive to evolving needs. Thoughtful design considerations including safety, accessibility, aesthetics, and integration with surrounding land uses,
will ensure the trail is both functional and inviting. Coordinated capital planning will allow for phased improvements, leveraging public and private investment to sustain momentum and complete key infrastructure projects. Finally, strong governance and stewardship will be essential to manage operations, maintenance, and programming, ensuring the trail remains a vibrant, wellcared-for public asset in the future.
TOOLBOX TO SUCCESS Long -Term Vision & Goals
Community Outreach
Design Considerations
Capital Planning
Governance & Stewardship
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EXISTING NICKEL PLATE TRAIL CORRIDOR & CONNECTIONS
White River
Residential Subdivisions Residential Subdivisions
Harrison Parkway Elementary School
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Riverview Health Federal Hill Commons
Downtown Noblesville
la
rail T te
lP icke
N
Residential Subdivisions
Hamilton County Fairgrounds
The Nickel Plate Trail between downtown Noblesville and Fishers is now a fully paved corridor, providing a continuous and highquality path for pedestrians and cyclists. The trail is a key regional connector and plays an important role in Noblesville’s transportation and open space network. As the trail transitions southward, it reflects two distinct character zones; an urban, multimodal corridor north of the White River and a greenway-style corridor to the south.
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EXISTING NICKEL PLATE TRAIL CORRIDOR
NPT Boulevard
Multi-modal Traffic
NPT Greenway
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Trail + Green Co
orridor
The physical differences of the Nickel Plate Trail in an urban and active context to the north, green and serene to the south, highlight the Nickel Plate Trail’s unqiue character and its ability to serve diverse users and adjacent land uses. The changing ROW widths, combined with the evolving landscape character, will shape future development, design interventions, and long-term trail management strategies.
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NPT Boulevard Conner Street
Pleasant St.
Section A
10th St.
Pleasant St. 125’-130’
Elizabeth St. G
re e
nfi
el
d
Av e
.
Section B
75’-80’
Carbon St.
Section C
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65’-70’
Multi-modal Traffic 125’-130’ ROW Existing Right-of-Way 7th St.
8th St.
75’ - 80’ ROW Existing Right-of-Way
65’-70’ ROW Existing Right-of-Way
North of the White River, from Pleasant Street through downtown Noblesville and toward Carbon Street, the corridor reflects a more urban character. This portion of the trail supports multi-modal activity, with users often walking, biking, and potentially integrating with other modes of transportation in the future. Here, the corridor sits within a 125-foot-wide ROW near Pleasant Street, gradually narrowing to approximately 75 feet near Carbon Street. This wider ROW provides opportunities for trail-oriented development, street furniture, lighting, and integration with adjacent urban uses. The trail in this segment also benefits from proximity to downtown destinations and a more structured built environment.
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NPT Greenway
10th Street
All
iso
nv
ille
Ro a
d
65’-70’
Section D
Section E
141st Street 26
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50’
Trail + Green Corridor
65’-70’ ROW Existing Right-of-Way
50’ ROW Existing Right-of-Way
As the trail crosses the Allisonville Road, the corridor character transitions into a greenway environment. The ROW begins to narrow to approximately 65 feet, continuing as such through much of the southern portion of the trail to 146th Street. This stretch emphasizes natural scenery, shade, and a quieter trail experience, with the design reinforcing the landscape and ecological features of the corridor. The greenway character continues into Fishers, where the ROW becomes more constrained—down to 50 feet near 141st Street—but still supports a fully functional and accessible trail.
Throughout the entire stretch, the trail maintains a 12-foot-wide asphalt surface. In Noblesville, it connects to the Midland Trace Trail and provides access to regional destinations. In Fishers, it continues south toward 96th Street, where a pedestrian bridge is planned to provide a grade-separated crossing and eventual link into the Indianapolis trail network.
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EXISTING ZONING - NORTH Existing Existing ZoningZoning - North- North
Downtown Core (Central Business District): Near Conner Street and the historic courthouse square, zoning supports mixed-use development with active ground floors and higher density. This urban core is the most pedestrian-oriented segment and allows for trail integration with civic and retail uses.
Irving St. Gerald St.
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Gerald St.
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Carbon St.
Industrial and Light Manufacturing:Along sections south of Christian Avenue and west of 8th Street, these zones include active industrial uses that may remain in the near term but are likely candidates for longterm transformation as the trail becomes a catalyst for urban reinvestment. Other industrial zoning is located closer to donwtown, such as the City acquired IDI property, and on either side of Vine Street between 11th and 13th.
Carbon St.
Neighborhood Residential Zones: As the trail moves south past South Street and into the Plum Prairie Neighborhood, zoning transitions to lower-density residential (typically R-2 or R-3). These areas are characterized by single-family homes with some multifamily development.
Conner St.
Conner St.
Pleasant St.
Pleasant St.
Pleasant St. Plum St.
Plum St.
Christian Ave.
Christian Ave.
Pleasant St.
Christian Ave.
Christian Ave. Irving St.
South St
10th St. South St
10th St. 5th St. 5th St.
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EXISTING ZONING - SOUTH Existing Zoning - North
On the west side of the trail, most adjacent properties are zoned R-1 or R-2, supporting low-density single-family residential neighborhoods, including subdivisions like Sommerwood. These areas are stable and builtout, with limited capacity for major redevelopment but opportunities for trail connections and neighborhood integration.
Irving St.
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Gerald St.
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Carbon St.
On the east side of the trail, zoning transitions to Industrial (I-1 or I-2) classifications. These zones include a mix of light manufacturing, serviceoriented businesses, and commercial facilities. While some parcels remain active industrial sites, others present opportunities for future redevelopment or trail-supportive uses, such as business partnerships, parking, or trailhead amenities.
Pleasant St.
Christian Ave.
5th St.
Conner St.
South St
Pleasant St.
Plum St.
Christian Ave.
10th St.
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PUBLIC INPUT
Public engagement played an important role in shaping the vision for the Nickel Plate Trail in Noblesville. To ensure the trail reflects community values and priorities, the City hosted multiple outreach events, including input opportunities at the existing Farmers Market at Federal Hill Commons and a series of public meetings specifically focused on the trail’s future. These gatherings offered residents the opportunity to share their ideas, express concerns, and help guide the development of this vital recreational and transportation corridor.
and cultural vibrancy. A key theme expressed by the community was the desire to create welcoming public spaces, including restrooms, along the trail. Plazas and gathering areas were frequently mentioned as important nodes for social connection and programming. These spaces are envisioned as hubs for events, rest stops, and informal community interaction.
From these events, a clear and inspiring vision emerged—one that combines active mobility with placemaking, ecological enhancement,
Preservation and enhancement of natural areas such as connections to the White River were also emphasized. Community members
Residents also voiced strong interest in incorporating restaurants and food vendors along or near the trail, envisioning the corridor as a destination.
Plan Development Virtual Public Engagement Discovery SUMMER 2023
FALL 2023
Inventory & Analysis, Community Open Houses, Farmers Market
Plan Development, Community Open Houses, Farmers Market
WINTER 2023 Plan Development & SC meetings
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advocated for trail connections that showcase Noblesville’s unique natural assets. The integration of native landscapes, riparian restoration, and shaded rest zones were common suggestions.
community interest in making the trail safe, inclusive, and convenient for daily use..
Public art and water features were consistently highlighted as essential elements that would bring beauty and character to the trail. Residents expressed a desire for the trail to reflect Noblesville’s identity through creative expression, interactive art installations, and playful elements that engage all ages. Practical considerations were also prominent in the feedback. There was a strong call for amenities such as restrooms and accessible entry points from nearby residential neighborhoods. These inputs reflect a
Altogether, the public input reinforced the vision of the Nickel Plate Trail as more than a linear path.
Final Plan SPRING 2024 Plan Development & SC Meetings
SUMMER 2024 Plan Development & SC meetings
SUMMER 2025 Presentation and Final Plan
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GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENTS
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Natural surface hiking trails - ie. mountain bikes
Bike Racks / Water Fillers
Restroom Facilities
Nickel Plate Bridge over 146
If not bridge at 146th right away, some kind of signal!
Restroom Facilities on Nickel Plate Trail
Lighting
Connection to Nickel Plate Trail for users from Wellington Northwest - 530 homes
Bridge over 146th! or tunnel
Public art projects/murals along existing trail on 10th st.
Bottle water refilling stations
Restrooms!!!
Wellington Northeast needs easier access to the Nickel Plate Trail. Also need a bathroom somewhere on the trail. If there are small children, you really can’t walk to the trail off Carbon St.
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NICKEL PLATE TRAIL ENHANCEMENTS
Public’s desired amenities:
PLAZA SPACES 17 Votes
EXERCISE STATIONS 4 Votes
OUTDOOR RESTAURANT SEATING 16 Votes
NATURAL AREAS 18 Votes
ART/WATER FEATURES 10 Votes 35
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TRAIL FRAMEWORK
DISTRICTS OF THE NICKEL PLATE TRAIL
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The Nickel Plate Trail passes through six distinct districts from Downtown Noblesville to 141st Street, identified on this plan. The Downtown District is vibrant and multimodal, supporting civic life and business. The Neighborhood Connection highlights walkability and community connectivity. The New Urban Core supports redevelopment and mixed-use activity. The River Connection offers natural beauty and access to the White River. The Residential District serves existing adjacent neighborhoods. Lastly, the Light Industry District provides trail continuity through employment areas.
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DISTRICTS OF THE NICKEL PLATE TRAIL Downtown District
The Downtown District forms the northern anchor of the trail. Located near the heart of historic Noblesville, this district leverages the high density, civic activity, and architectural character of downtown to create a vibrant, pedestrian-focused environment. Key elements include an integrated streetscape, special pavements, and active storefronts, all of which combine to create a seamless and welcoming interface between trail users and surrounding businesses. The trail acts as a linear plaza, offering spaces for people to walk, gather, shop, and relax.
Neighborhood/Cultural Connection
Just south of downtown, the Neighborhood/ Cultural Connection district forms a vital transition between the city center and adjacent neighborhoods. This area provides a buffer between the Plum Prairie Neighborhood and future development to the east along 10th Street, ensuring that the trail supports both preservation and change. The design of this district reflects a deep respect for local history and community identity, incorporating storytelling, historical markers, and culturally relevant art.
Planned trail features include abundant This district is designed to support dense opportunities for resting, shaded seating areas, pedestrian activity, reinforcing downtown as and locations for art displays and peoplea civic hub. Temporary on-street events such watching. These elements invite lingering as markets, performances, parades, and art and encourage community interaction, while installations help animate the trail and draw also offering moments of pause within the both residents and visitors. By maintaining urban fabric. Safety is a guiding principle visual continuity through paving, lighting, and in this district, with the implementation of furnishings, the trail enhances connectivity traffic calming, special pedestrian crossings, between landmarks such as the courthouse enhanced lighting, and landscape buffers. This square and Federal Hill Commons. This section district reinforces neighborhood identity while of the trail encourages spontaneous interaction, offering safe, dignified access to the broader flexible public use, and urban vibrancy—all trail system. while promoting economic development and social cohesion.
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DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
onnection NEIGHBORHOOD/CULTURAL CONNECTION
e-
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DISTRICTS OF THE NICKEL PLATE TRAIL New Urban Core
River Connection
The New Urban Core represents a bold vision for Noblesville’s future. Positioned between established neighborhoods and commercial corridors, this district supports the city’s goals of smart growth, infill development, and walkable urbanism. A key objective is introducing new density along the Nickel Plate Trail corridor, comparable to downtown, while maintaining quality public space and environmental sensitivity.
As the trail moves southward, it enters the River Connection district—a scenic and ecological heart of the corridor. This district is defined by its proximity to the White River and presents an opportunity to celebrate and restore the natural landscape. Trail design here is intended to complement and emphasize the surrounding environment, offering users an experience of water, vegetation, wildlife, and open space.
This district is envisioned as a center for new housing, employment, and recreational opportunities, where the trail acts as a connective spine. Trail design is closely integrated with adjacent building uses, offering direct connections between residential units, retail storefronts, office spaces, and public amenities. Streetscape features such as trailfacing patios, plazas, and semi-public gathering zones foster daily interaction and layered public-private relationships.
Development in this district will balance nature with activation. While remaining sensitive to the landscape, there is room for recreation, entertainment, and river-oriented dining experiences. Spaces such as terraces, boat launches, open-air cafes, and flexible event lawns could be integrated to encourage public engagement. The district could offer various opportunities to engage with the river, whether through visual overlooks, water elements, or natural trails that route closer to the riverbank.
Design within this district will prioritize innovation and inspiration, incorporating artful materials, contemporary lighting, and bold forms to attract and retain people. Placemaking will extend beyond aesthetics to include interactive features, educational elements, and environmentally conscious infrastructure.
This area also presents an important opportunity for environmental remediation and floodplain preservation. Restoration of native ecosystems, invasive species management, and green infrastructure will support both biodiversity and long-term resilience. By elevating the experience of nature while supporting thoughtful development, the River Connection becomes a signature destination within the Nickel Plate Trail system.
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NEW URBAN CORE
th
ple;
al RIVER CONNECTION
d
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DISTRICTS OF THE NICKEL PLATE TRAIL Residential District
South of the river, the trail enters the Residential District, a quieter and more community-oriented segment. Surrounded by existing housing, this stretch of trail acts as a passive greenway that enhances everyday life for nearby residents. The design emphasizes vegetated buffers and soft edges, offering a natural transition between private yards and the public trail, while maintaining privacy and visual interest. This district is well-suited for low-impact trail nodes, including resting spots, informal gathering spaces, and small-scale fitness equipment. These features make the trail a functional extension of the neighborhood, supporting daily routines and community wellness. Trailheads or minor entry points may also be incorporated to offer neighborhoodspecific access points and wayfinding. The Residential District prioritizes comfort, safety, and familiarity. Design features will focus on simplicity, durability, and ease of maintenance, creating a calm and welcoming environment. Landscape plantings, local art, and seating areas will be carefully placed to enhance use while respecting the residential character of the area.
Light Industry District
The Light Industry Park district forms the southern end of the trail and provides an essential link through a light industrial and employment zone. While it has a more utilitarian context, this segment offers exciting opportunities for creative engagement and reimagining underutilized spaces. A key strategy is to engage and form partnerships with local businesses, allowing for mutual benefits through visibility, access, and shared amenities.
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As development occurs, the trail can be leveraged as a framework for increasing interaction between businesses and trail users. Outdoor break areas, fitness stations, and trailfacing façades can transform the area from pass-through to destination. Coordination with adjacent public nodes— such as future parks, mobility hubs, or civic facilities—will help tie the trail to a broader network. Lighting, landscaping, and signage will ensure that this stretch remains safe and functional, while also offering moments of surprise and delight.
RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT
on
s
ss Park LIGHT INDUSTRY DISTRICT
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1
2 Carbon St.
3
5
Legend Proposed Street Proposed Trail 100-year Floodplain Existing Pedestrian Connection 46
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Nickel Plate Trail 4
OPPORTUNITY ZONES Opportunity Zones along the Nickel Plate Trail are areas identified for potential investment, redevelopment, or amenity enhancements that support the broader vision of the trail as a community and economic connector. In this context, an “Opportunity Zone” is not a federal designation, but a local planning tool used to highlight underutilized or transitional areas adjacent to the trail that could benefit from new development, adaptive reuse, or public space improvements. These zones have the potential to bring new life to areas currently dominated by outdated land uses or infrastructure, creating vibrant connections between neighborhoods, businesses, and the trail corridor. Opportunity Zones 1–3 are located in the central portion of the trail, where the corridor runs parallel to existing industrial and light manufacturing areas. These sites which include aging warehouses, vacant parcels, and large impervious surfaces, represent long-term redevelopment potential. While some of the industrial operations are still active, changes in land use over time may allow for more trailoriented redevelopment. These zones could support a mix of new uses, such as urban housing, commercial nodes, or civic amenities that directly interact with the trail. The scale and location of these parcels offer unique opportunities for large-format development or public-private partnerships that enhance the trail experience while attracting private investment. Improvements could also include plazas, trail access points, and trail-facing businesses that activate the corridor and create a more walkable, connected urban environment.
the trail, near 10th Street and Carbon. These areas are within a two-block radius of the trail and have historically included a mix of small commerical buildings, residential structures, and vacant lots. Recently, this area has seen the early signs of revitalization, most notably with Bier Brewery’s new location east of 10th Street, which has begun to shift perceptions and energy in the district. Public improvements such as wayfinding, pedestrian-friendly crossings, and green infrastructure can support this redevelopment and improve trail access from the east. As momentum grows, these Opportunity Zones will help stitch together the Nickel Plate Trail with surrounding neighborhoods, offering residents new places to gather, shop, work, and enjoy the City’s evolving trail corridor.
Key Map - north of Allisonville Road
Opportunity Zones 4–5 are located east of
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OPPORTUNITY ZONES - NORTH Zone 6 is located in the commercial area northwest of Christian Avenue and 10th Street. This area is currently dominated by large impervious surfaces, including parking lots and commercial properties. While many of the existing buildings remain in use, the site’s scale and proximity to the trail create long-term potential for redevelopment. Future projects could introduce more trail-oriented uses, such as mixed-use buildings, public plazas, or small-scale retail and housing that better engage with the trail corridor. Landscape improvements and green infrastructure could also reduce heat and runoff while making the area more inviting for trail users and residents alike. Zone 7 is the former IDI property, recently acquired by the City of Noblesville. Located west of 8th Street and adjacent to the new roundabout at 8th and Pleasant Street, this site is uniquely positioned for catalytic redevelopment. Its prominent location along the Nickel Plate Trail and visibility from Pleasant Street makes it a strong candidate for a signature public or mixed-use project. With city ownership, the site offers flexibility and the potential to deliver impactful, communitydriven development. This could include trailhead amenities, public gathering spaces, or new commercial or civic uses that activate the trail and serve as a gateway into downtown. Zone 8 lies directly across 8th Street from Zone 7 and shares similar physical and strategic advantages. Previously vacant and underused, this area is now highly visible due to the newly constructed downtown bypass. With increased connectivity and exposure, Zone 8 has the potential to support trail-friendly redevelopment such as residential infill, studio or maker spaces, or locally driven businesses. Improvements here could complement the vision for Zone 7, creating a unified district that
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strengthens the trail corridor and surrounding neighborhood through public and private investment. Zone 9 includes the parcels around the new roundabout at Pleasant and 10th Street. Several older commercial properties were removed during construction of the roundabout, leaving open land that now presents a blank slate for reinvestment. This area serves as a key junction along the trail, connecting multiple districts and creating an opportunity to introduce new development that directly interfaces with trail users. Future uses might include trail-focused retail, a small public plaza, or amenities such as bike stations or food kiosks. With improved visibility, access, and circulation, Zone 9 can serve as both a destination and a connector, reinforcing the trail’s role as a spine for community life.
Key Map - north of Allisonville Road
5th St.
Plum Prairie Neighborhood Nickel Plate Trail
7
6
9
Corner St.
Pleasant St.
Christian Ave.
5
8
10th St.
Legend Proposed Street Proposed Trail 100-year Floodplain Existing Pedestrian Connection 49
OPPORTUNITY ZONES - SOUTH Opportunity Zone 10 spans from the south boundary at 146th Street—a highly visible and heavily trafficked corridor—northward to the Wellington Northeast and Sommerwood neighborhoods. The City of Noblesville is currently studying the feasibility of a bike and pedestrian bridge over 146th Street, which would provide a critical and safe crossing for trail users. This infrastructure investment presents a prime opportunity to establish a major trail node at or near the intersection, including amenities such as parking, restrooms, seating, bike racks, and wayfinding. Given its location at a trail gateway and regional connector, this node would serve both local users and regional trail travelers. As the trail continues north into residential areas, however, a sensitive design approach is essential. Buffering, privacy measures, and thoughtful landscaping will help preserve neighborhood character and ensure that trail improvements enhance—not disrupt—the quality of life for adjacent residents.
Wellington Heights
Sommerwood
10 146th St.
Herriman Blvd.
SR 37
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Stony Creek Way
Wellington Northeast
Stony Creek Business Park
Legend Proposed Street Proposed Trail 100-year Floodplain Existing Pedestrian Connection 51
OPPORTUNITY ZONES - SOUTH Opportunity Zone 11, located between 141st and 146th Streets, is adjacent to a mix of existing businesses, Harrison Parkway Elementary School, and single-family homes to the west. This transitional zone is uniquely positioned to serve both community and commercial needs. Redevelopment or trail enhancements here could include safe connections to the school, improved crossings, and family-friendly trail features such as educational signage or small gathering spaces. With nearby commercial uses, this zone may also offer space for future trail-serving retail or shared public-private amenities, such as shaded seating or a bike repair station. Careful coordination with the school and surrounding neighborhoods will be important to balance access, safety, and character.
Wellington Heights
Sommerwood
11 146th St.
Herriman Blvd.
SR 37
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Stony Creek Way
Wellington Northeast
Stony Creek Business Park
Legend Proposed Street Proposed Trail 100-year Floodplain Existing Pedestrian Connection 53
DISTRICT CASE STUDIES
CASE BROOKS’ BIKE SHOP
TAMMANY TRACE TRAIL Connecting five towns, the 31 mile Tammany Trace Trail converted the Illinois Central Railroad corridor into a vibrant resource for several communities. With the creation of the trail and several pocket parks, businesses such as Brooks’ Bike Shop have opened and thrived. The owner installed his own bike parking, benches, and more to create a more comfortable environment and invite passersby to interact with his business.
Brooks’ THE Bike Shop HE TRAIL CONTEXT
Trail maintenance is funded through a small sales tax.
AMENITIES / STRATEGIES • mostly Restrooms The Tammany Trace Trail is a 31-mile, wooded trail that passes
through five towns in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, including Covington. • Outdoor furniture The Trace was built as part of a Rails-to-Trails using grants and • Bikeproject rentals federal funding to convert the abandoned Illinois Central Railroad corridor • New landscaping into an asphalt path with pedestrian construction began • bridges. TrailSince information
the Trace, adjacent businesses and residences opened or expanded, CORE PUBLIC on HOUSE • Bike parking including Brooks’ Bike Shop. Tammany Trace Trail Brooks’ Bike Shop
In 2012, Patrick Brooks opened the bike shop alongside a city-owned pocket park and offers bicycle rentals, repairs, and sales. To encourage trail users to stop at his business, Mr. Brooks installed trail-oriented development features including bike parking, benches, and outdoor lights. The shop sponsors a sculpture each year, and restrooms in the shop are open to all trail users. The shop also serves as an informal information center for trail users when the Covington Trailhead Museum is closed. The Brooks’ Bike Shop location in Covington has seen such great success that it opened a new trailside shop in nearby Mandeville, also on the Trace.
0
L
Core Public House Direct trail access AMENITIES / STRATEGIES Trail signage Bicycle parking Water New landscaping CONTEXT Programming Trail-userTHE restroom The Razorback Greenway runs through six communities Canopy / shade in Northwest Building modifications
Arkansas, connecting neighborhoods with existing and new businesses like
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Core Public House in Springdale. Jesse Core, the brewpub’s owner, would | NICKEL PLATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN not have opened his restaurant and bar had it not been for an available Greenway-adjacent property.
RAZORBACK GREENWAY Running through six communities in NW Arkansas, the 25 mile Razorback Greenway connects neighborhoods and local businesses. Funding came from a federal transportation grant and the Walton Family Foundation. The chamber of commerce and the city of Springdale worked with developers and small business owners on access to the trail and the design of the trail. Newly created form-based zoning codes stipulate the design and construction of new buildings, making it easier to develop along the Razorback Greenway.
MUSEUM REACH - NORTHERN RIVER WALK EXPANSION Through the completion of the Museum Reach branch of the San Antonio River Walk, the historic building and grounds of the Pearl Brewery were rehabilitated for new uses and economic development. Thanks to its trailside access, 19 restaurants, 14 retailers, a hotel, and over 350 residential units were created, thereby reinvigorating the historic Tobin Hill neighborhood.
Pearl Brewery District AMENITIES / STRATEGIES
• Water fountains
• Restroom access • Programming
• Bike parking
• Bike valet
• Bikeshare stations
• Public art
• Outdoor furniture • Canopy / shade
• Amphitheater HIGH-INVESTMENT • Direct trail access
CASE PEARL BREWERY DISTRICT HIGH-INVESTMENT
STRATEGIES
TOOLS
Water fountains Restroom access STRATEGIES TOOLS Programming
Partnerships
The symbiotic relationship with SARA continues beyond the initial construction phase. Pearl, SARA, and the City of San Antonio benefit
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RECOMMENDATIONS
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NODE LOCATIONS
Wellington North & Stony Creek way Sommerwood & Stony Creek way
E 146th St
E 141st St & Harrison Parkway Elementary School
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kel c i N
rail T te Pla
8th St & Pleasant St Nickel Plate Boulevard Nickel Plate Boulevard 8th St & Carbon St 8th St & Riverfront Park Development
Allisonville Road
The trail districts and Opportunity Zones helped guide the placement of trail nodes by identifying areas with the greatest potential for activity, access, and transformation. Nodes were strategically located where the trail intersects with redevelopment areas, key destinations, or neighborhood connections—such as Downtown, the Riverfront, and 10th Street. These nodes serve as natural gathering spaces, trailheads, or rest areas, designed to respond to each district’s character.
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DOWNTOWN DISTRICT AND NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICT PLAN A dedicated trail segment parallel to 8th Street, extending from the former IDI property north to SR 32, presents a significant opportunity to enhance connectivity, safety, and public space near the heart of Noblesville. With the recent construction of the Pleasant Street bypass diverting traffic away from the downtown core, traffic volumes on 8th Street are expected to decline, providing an opportunity to eliminate existing turn lanes and repurpose space for a separated multi-use trail. This shift prioritizes pedestrian and cyclist safety while creating a more inviting streetscape in a key civic corridor.
interface with the trail but also adds valuable green space for residents. The study outlines two alignment options (page 62 and page 64) through this area, each designed to accommodate neighborhood access while maintaining direct trail flow.
The proposed trail alignment also includes enhancements adjacent to the Plum Prairie Neighborhood, where the existing space between 7th and 8th Streets would be converted into new parkland with amenities such as seating, landscaping, and play areas. This not only improves the neighborhood
Section A - 8th St. north of Pleasant St.
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Plum Prairie Neighborhood B Nickel Plate Trail 2
A
1
Legend Proposed Street Proposed Trail 100-year Floodplain Existing Pedestrian Connection 61
PLUM ST
CHESTNUT ST
DOWNTOWN AND NEIGHBORHOOD CORRIDOR PLAN - OPTION 1
PLAYGROUND
NICKEL PLATE TRAIL
RESTROOMS
ROLLING OPEN LAWN
WATER FEATURE
S 7TH ST
SHELTER
S 8TH ST
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PLUM ST
CHESTNUT ST
ON STREET PARKING
PICNIC ARE
PLEASANT ST
WASHINGTON ST SHELTER
ON STREET PARKING
S 9TH ST
PLEASANT ST
WASHINGTON ST
EA
ENTRY GATEWAY PLAZA
NICKEL PLATE TRAIL
63
PLUM ST
CHESTNUT ST
DOWNTOWN AND NEIGHBORHOOD CORRIDOR PLAN - OPTION 2
PLAYGROUND
SHARED STREET (NICKEL PLATE TRAIL AND 7TH) PICNIC AREA
S 7TH ST
ROLLING OPEN LAWN
S 8TH ST
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PLUM ST
CHESTNUT ST
ON STREET PARKING
PLEASANT ST
WASHINGTON ST SHARED STREET (NICKEL PLATE TRAIL AND 7TH)
NICKEL PLATE TRAIL
SHELTER & RESTROOMS
WATER FEATURE & ART PLAZA
S 9TH ST PLEASANT ST
WASHINGTON ST
ON STREET PARKING
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DOWNTOWN AND NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICT - STREET SECTION
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Section B - between Christian Ave and Pleasant Street
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Legend Proposed Street Proposed Trail 100-year Floodplain Existing Pedestrian Connection
C
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NEW URBAN CORE AND RIVER CONNECTION The New Urban Core and River Connection districts along the Nickel Plate Trail represent two of the most transformative segments of the corridor. Each district brings a distinct identity and set of opportunities, but both are anchored in a shared vision: to use the trail as a catalyst for redevelopment, recreation, and meaningful community interaction with the built and natural environments. The New Urban Core District, located south of Carbon Street, is envisioned as a major redevelopment zone that extends both east and west of the Nickel Plate Trail. With a focus on higher-density housing, mixed-use buildings, and active public spaces, this district will be seen as a model for urban living in Noblesville—one that’s walkable, connected, and trail-oriented. The layout shown in the plan highlights how development can radiate from the trail, using it as a central spine for mobility and civic identity. The district will include key nodes along the trail equipped with parking areas for vehicles and bicycles, public gathering spaces, and amenities such as shelters, restrooms, and signage. These nodes will become focal points for activity and essential infrastructure for users of all ages. Additionally, this district offers the opportunity to connect to the existing trail east of 10th Street, integrating the broader network and enhancing accessibility to and from nearby neighborhoods and businesses.
natural assets: the White River. This district emphasizes preserving and celebrating the natural environment while creating access points for recreation and leisure. Trail improvements could include scenic overlooks, fishing platforms, and kayak launch areas. Selective commercial development such as restaurants or cafés with river views, may also be introduced to activate the area while ackowledging the limits of the floodplain.The trail alignment will take advantage of river views, weaving through areas that highlight the tranquility and seclusion of the corridor. In addition to the White River, the plan also proposes extending trail connections to natural areas near Stony Creek and the undeveloped land south of CenterPoint Energy, creating a looped trail and ecological experiences.
Just south of the New Urban Core, the River Connection District focuses on bringing people closer to Noblesville’s most scenic
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NEW URBAN CORE AND RIVER CONNECTION
Section C - 8th Street through Urban Core District
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D
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RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT The Residential District of the Nickel Plate Trail begins south of the Allisonville Road and continues through an area primarily composed of single-family neighborhoods. In the northern portion of this district, homes line both sides of the trail, creating an intimate and communityfocused atmosphere. As the trail moves south, it remains closely tied to residential areas while also running adjacent to schools, making it an important connector for students and families.
Section D
Due to the narrower right-of-way in this district compared to areas north of the White River, design considerations must be sensitive and space-conscious. While large-scale amenities may be limited, the plan identifies opportunities for small plazas at designated node locations, offering places to rest, meet, or access the trail. These nodes are positioned where access is possible through the adjacent light-industrial properties to the east, improving neighborhood connectivity without compromising residential privacy. On the west side, the Sommerwood community already benefits from an existing trail access point near their community pool, providing a model for other localized connections. Throughout the district, consistent vegetation, signage, and trail materials will reinforce the Nickel Plate Trail’s identity and ensure a seamless user experience as the trail transitions from the more urban character of downtown Noblesville into its surrounding neighborhoods.
Section E 75
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INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT The Industrial District of the Nickel Plate Trail begins at its southern boundary on 141st Street and extends northward, occupying the eastern edge of the trail corridor. This area is characterized by a concentration of light industrial and commercial uses, including business parks, warehouses, and servicerelated facilities.
highlight their products or services. Similar to the residential district, the consistent use of plant material, pavements, and wayfinding will create a consistent rhythm to the Nickel Plate Trail in Noblesville.
Key opportunities in this district include partnering with adjacent businesses or pursuing targeted property acquisition to introduce trailhead amenities such as parking, restrooms, shelters, and bike lockers. These features would enhance usability for both trail users and nearby employees, but due to the narrow right-of-way (ROW) in this segment, additional space will likely need to come from collaborative agreements with private landowners. Looking ahead, this area could also support the development of a co-working or innovation space adjacent to the trail, similar to the successful Hub & Spoke in Fishers. A facility like this could serve multiple functions: offering flexible workspace for entrepreneurs, providing a public amenity for trail users, and giving local businesses a visible platform to
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ZONING - PROPOSED Existing Zoning - North
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Gerald St.
Parcels along the White River and Stony Creek are maintained as Open Space or Floodplain (FH) to preserve natural features, enhance scenic value, and support lowimpact recreational use.
Carbon St.
Residential zoning along the trail is proposed to reflect a graduated density approach— with R5 zoning for higherdensity housing closest to the trail and R4 and R3 designations further from the corridor. This provides a balanced transition from urban to neighborhood scale while supporting compact, trail-accessible development.
Irving St.
South of downtown, several properties currently zoned I-1 or I-2 are proposed to transition to Downtown (DT) zoning. This change allows for mixed-use redevelopment with higher density and walkable urban form. It includes areas west of the trail and properties along Vine Street between 11th and 13th Streets, supporting infill development that strengthens the trail’s connection to adjacent neighborhoods.
Pleasant St.
Christian Ave.
5th St.
Conner St.
South St
Pleasant St.
Plum St.
Christian Ave.
10th St.
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TRAIL DEVELOPMENT & AMENITIES
DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT POLICY As the Nickel Plate Trail becomes a central feature in Noblesville’s urban fabric, thoughtful planning and coordination will be essential to its long-term success. The trail is not only a transportation and recreation corridor— it is also a place of identity, economic opportunity, and public life. To ensure that future development along the trail contributes positively to the character, safety, and vibrancy of the corridor, design guidelines are an important tool, particularly in the Downtown District, Neighborhood/Cultural Connection District, and New Urban Core District.
guidelines will help shape an evolving area where higher density and mixed-use development are anticipated. As the trail becomes a spine for urban infill, guidelines are needed to ensure that new buildings integrate the trail through setbacks, frontages, and public space connections. Design should support walkability, incorporate Noblesville’s natural features, and encourage innovative architecture that defines the city’s future. Trailoriented design can transform this district into a vibrant extension of downtown, promoting livability, access, and economic development.
In the Downtown District, the trail runs through one of the city’s most active and visible areas, where civic spaces, businesses, and pedestrians converge. Development in this area must reinforce the historic charm and human scale that define downtown Noblesville. Design guidelines can help ensure that new buildings and renovations maintain a consistent relationship to the street and trail— incorporating active ground floors, transparent storefronts, special paving materials, and public-facing amenities.
Design guidelines provide a framework for growth that is intentional, inclusive, and aligned with the community’s values. They help developers, designers, and city officials coordinate efforts, reduce conflicts, and raise the standard for what it means to build next to the Nickel Plate Trail.
The Neighborhood/Cultural Connection District plays a vital role in linking established residential areas and community landmarks with the trail. Here, design guidelines should focus on compatibility with neighborhood character, sensitive transitions between uses, and safe, attractive access points. Buildings should respond to adjacent homes in scale and material while offering opportunities for trail interaction through porches, plazas, murals, or seating areas. Guidelines can also promote traffic calming, landscape buffers, and other features that enhance comfort, safety, and cultural expression along the corridor. In the New Urban Core District, design
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DOWNTOWN DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT
Mixed Use Guidelines STRATEGIES • Minimum 60-90% Glazing • Minimum 5’ setback for 80% of Building • 6 Stories Maximum • Balconies Required • Foundation Plantings Required • Provide space for outdoor Dining • Single story architectural emphasis such as canopies, awnings, porticoes, etc. • Recesses and Protrusions required for visual interest • Vary materiality with the use of stone, metal, siding, etc. to create multiple facades on one larger building as well as provide visual interest
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Residential Guidelines STRATEGIES • Minimum 25-50% Glazing • Minimum 5’ setback for 80% of Building • 5 Stories Maximum • Balconies not Required • Foundation Plantings Required • Single story architectural emphasis such as canopies, awnings, porticoes, etc. • Recesses and Protrusions required for visual interest • Vary materiality with the use of stone, metal, siding, etc. to create multiple facades on one larger building as well as provide visual interest
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Commercial / Office / Civic Guidelines STRATEGIES • • • • • • • • •
Minimum 60-90% Glazing Minimum 5’ setback for 80% of Building 5 Stories Maximum Balconies not Required Foundation Plantings Required Provide space for outdoor Dining Single story architectural emphasis such as canopies, awnings, porticoes, etc. Recesses and Protrusions required for visual interest Vary materiality with the use of stone, metal, siding, etc. to create multiple facades on one larger building as well as provide visual interest
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NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT
Mixed Use Guidelines STRATEGIES • • • • • • • • •
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Minimum 50% Glazing Minimum 20’ setback for 80% of Building 2 Stories Maximum Balconies Required Foundation Plantings Required Provide space for outdoor Dining Single story architectural emphasis such as canopies, awnings, porticoes, etc. Recesses and Protrusions required for visual interest Vary materiality with the use of stone, metal, siding, etc. to create multiple facades on one larger building as well as provide visual interest
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Residential Guidelines STRATEGIES • • • • • • • •
•
No minimum Glazing Standard Minimum 20’ setback for 80% of Building 2.5 Stories Maximum Balconies not Required Foundation Plantings Required Single story architectural emphasis such as canopies, awnings, porticoes, etc. Recesses and Protrusions required for visual interest Vary materiality with the use of stone, metal, siding, etc. to create multiple facades on one larger building as well as provide visual interest Match and compliment architectural styles of existing homes within the district 87
Commercial / Office / Civic Guidelines STRATEGIES • • • • • • • • •
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Minimum 50% Glazing Minimum 20’ setback for 80% of Building 2 Stories Maximum Balconies not Required Foundation Plantings Required Provide space for outdoor Dining Single story architectural emphasis such as canopies, awnings, porticoes, etc. Recesses and Protrusions required for visual interest Vary materiality with the use of stone, metal, siding, etc. to create multiple facades on one larger building as well as provide visual interest | NICKEL PLATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN
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NEW URBAN CORE DEVELOPMENT
Mixed Use Guidelines STRATEGIES • • • • • • • • • •
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Minimum 60-90% Glazing Minimum 5’ setback 5 Stories Maximum Balconies are Required Foundation Plantings Required Provide space for outdoor Dining Single story architectural emphasis such as canopies, awnings, porticoes, etc. Recesses must be a minimum of 3’ deep Recesses and Protrusions required for visual interest Vary materiality with the use of stone, metal, siding, etc. to create multiple facades on one larger building as well as provide visual interest
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Residential Guidelines STRATEGIES • • • • • • • • •
Minimum 25-35% Glazing Minimum 5’ setback 4 Stories Maximum Balconies are Required Foundation Plantings Required Single story architectural emphasis such as canopies, awnings, porticoes, etc. Recesses must be a minimum of 3’ deep Recesses and Protrusions required for visual interest Vary materiality with the use of stone, metal, siding, etc. to create multiple facades on one larger building as well as provide visual interest
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Commercial / Office / Civic Guidelines STRATEGIES • • • • • • • • • •
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Minimum 60-90% Glazing Minimum 5’ setback 4 Stories Maximum Balconies not Required Foundation Plantings Required Provide space for outdoor Dining Single story architectural emphasis such as canopies, awnings, porticoes, etc. Recesses must be a minimum of 3’ deep Recesses and Protrusions required for visual interest Vary materiality with the use of stone, metal, siding, etc. to create multiple facades on one larger building as well as provide visual interest | NICKEL PLATE TRAIL MASTER PLAN
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TRAIL AMENITIES AND DESIGN LANGUAGE Creating a strong and recognizable identity for the Nickel Plate Trail depends not only on land use and development strategies but also on the visual and physical consistency of design elements along the corridor. The thoughtful use of pavements, furnishings, and plant materials helps establish a unified character, supports user comfort and safety, and contributes to memorable placemaking. A cohesive design language will guide both public and private investments and ensure the trail feels like a continuous, connected experience from end to end. Pavement design is central to defining the trail’s form and function. The primary trail surface should be durable and accessible— such as concrete or asphalt—with consistent width and scoring patterns. To enhance visual interest and establish hierarchy, special pavement treatments can be introduced at key nodes and intersections. For example, textured shoulders or edge treatments similar to those found on the Atlanta Belt-Line can be added using unit pavers, colored concrete, or other materials to distinguish the trail edge, soften transitions, or highlight adjacent gathering spaces. At intersections, highvisibility crosswalks with bold striping, colored surfacing, or stamped patterns can improve safety and signal trail priority to motorists. Furnishings along the trail will reinforce its identity and ensure a consistent user experience. A standard collection should include bike racks, waste and recycling receptacles, benches, picnic tables, and light bollards—all selected with coordinated forms, materials, and finishes. These elements not only provide comfort and functionality but also act as visual anchors throughout the corridor. Lighting elements should be pedestrian-scale, with options like bollard or post-mounted fixtures that enhance safety while preserving
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the trail’s atmosphere. In areas with higher activity, public art, signage, or branded markers can be integrated into furnishings to enrich placemaking. Plant materials also play a vital role in shaping the trail’s identity and ecological function. A consistent planting palette of native grasses, pollinator-friendly perennials, and shade trees should be used throughout the trail to provide seasonal interest, habitat, and shade. Landscape buffers can help define edges, soften transitions between trail and adjacent properties, and offer moments of visual relief. Plant selection should prioritize lowmaintenance, drought-tolerant species that are well-adapted to central Indiana’s climate.
Pavement Options
Intersections & Crossings
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FURNISHINGS Lighting
Bicycle Parking
Existing Noblesville Lighting
Seating
Bike Repair
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Waste Receptacle
Drinking Fountain
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SIGNAGE AND BRANDING Wayfinding and signage plays an important role in enhancing the usability, safety, and identity of the Nickel Plate Trail. Effective wayfinding reduces confusion, supports firsttime and returning users alike, and encourages exploration of surrounding neighborhoods, businesses, and landmarks. The proposed signage options shown below offer a toolkit that can be tailored by location—helping create a consistent, welcoming, and intuitive experience throughout the trail.
pavement markings, furnishings, and kiosks, creating a strong visual language that is both functional and engaging. A cohesive brand increases recognition, fosters civic pride, and helps position the trail as a signature destination within Noblesville.
Branding along the Nickel Plate Trail helps establish a distinct, memorable identity that ties together its various districts and features. The use of consistent logos, icons, and graphic elements reinforces the trail’s presence as a unified corridor, while also allowing flexibility to reflect the character of different areas— such as downtown, residential, or natural zones. Trail branding can appear on signage,
Interpretative/Informational Sign
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Mile Marker
Wayfinding Signage
Trailhead Sign
District Banner
Landmark Feature
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EXISTING SIGNAGE NPT EXISTING SIGNAGE
CITY OF NOBLESVILLE EXISTING SIGNAGE
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POTENTIAL SIGNAGE INSPIRING IMAGERY
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EXISTING BRANDING NICKEL PLATE TRAIL LOGO GUIDE & CITY OF NOBLESVILLE LOGO
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POTENTIAL BRANDING CONCEPTS Compatible Concept Modifying the Nickel Plate Trail logo used in Fishers creates a familiar logo set that coincides with Noblesville’s branding guidelines and existing Nickel Plate Trail branding.
Courthouse Square Connection Highlighting the Nickel Plate Trail’s path through downtown Noblesville, this logo celebrates the historic and bustling courthouse square as well as Noblesville’s quintessential small town charm.
Rail to Trail Showcasing the Nickel Plate Trail’s history of converting a rail line to a trail system, this concept underscores the spirit of the Nickel Plate Trail.
Classically Noblesville Celebrating the history and charm of Noblesville, while simultaneously respecting Noblesville’s existing branding guidelines, this concept re-imagines the City of Noblesville’s logo to highlight this portion of the Nickel Plate Trail as distinctively Noblesville.
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FUNDING The City of Noblesville has several Tax Increment Financing districts used to capture newly assessed values, as well as property taxes, within a designated area. Apartments, commercial, and industrial properties are all eligible for capturing assessed property value increases. These TIF district can redevelop blighted areas, encourage economic growth, and induce private investment through the financing of infrastructure or incentives.
The goal of the Land and Water Conservation Fund is the creation and maintenance of high- quality recreation amenities through the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. The local sponsor matches 50% of the project cost prior to applying for the grant. After the project is approved, the sponsoring park and recreation board receives a reimbursement of 50% of the actual project costs. Applicants must submit a bill to the grant coordinator to request the federal share of the cost throughout the grant term. Only park and recreation boards established under Indiana law are eligible for the program. These entities must currently have a five-year parks and recreation master plan on file, approved by the Division of Outdoor Recreation. Funding ranges from $50,000-$500,000. Local agencies in Indiana have received over $90 million to date.
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The Duke Energy Foundation accepts grant applications for up to $20,000 to improve communities throughout the state. Prospective grants need to focus on creating vibrant economies, climate resiliency, and/or justice, equity and inclusion. To apply, connect with a local representative, submit a grant application, and then, if it is awarded, fill out and submit an impact report (given the grant awarded is greater than $10,000).
Every year, nearly one million dollars is awarded through Hamilton County Community Foundation (HCCF) grants. The goal of HCCF is to uplift Hamilton County communities and help everyone to reach their potential. Grants are available for general operating support requests of $15,000 and must serve county residents. All grant proposals must be made through CICF’s, Central Indiana Community Foundation’s, Smart Simple platform.
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APPENDIX
PUBLIC INPUT RESULTS
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PUBLIC INPUT RESULTS
Designing the Nickel Plate Trail District
MAP LEGEND
Which kind of Amenities do we want to have, and where?
NODES
Below are several sticky dots, each with a different symbol to represent different amenities we could have along the Trail and throughout the District. Select up to 5 sticky dots and place them along the trail to tell us what you want to see and where! Your input will help shape decisions on initial amenity investments for the upcoming trail activation project, as well as design strategies that set the stage for future activation investments over the next 5-10 years. Sommerwood Dr.
Providence Dr.
Invasive removal along trail.
Central yellow line on trail.
MAJOR PROPOSED TRAI CONNECTIONS
MINOR PROPOSED TRAIL
River access
Exte
All nd to 14 iso 6th nv ille R
d.
Extend walkway along Allisonville (146th to Wellington Pkwy)
Observatio bridge
Nature interpretation signa to show how valuabl important this natu space is.
Harrison Pkwy.
Add parking
SR 38 146th St.
141st St.
N Pointe Blvd.
Results from May 2025 Public Open House
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NICKEL PLATE TRAIL
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STICKY DOT ICON LEGEND
NATURALIZED AREA
WATER FEATURE
BIKE PARKING/REPAIR
SHELTER / PICNIC
GARDENS
WALKING TRAILS
RESTROOM
COMMUNITY GARDENS
PUBLIC ART
4th St.
Trash cans!!! At regular intervals for all. Include pet waste receptacles.
Trace & River Walk
6thtrails St.connect through
FOOD TRUCK LOT “Flexible” spaces around trail for pop up events
Maple Ave.
Cherry St.
Hannibal St.
13th St.
IDI Building as a NPT Gateway?
Vine St.
Historic architectural elements!
Historic location of train station
Division St. Mulberry St.
Histoy element/train element. Honor the 10th history ofSt. the rail line.
Pleasant St.
.
Christian Ave.
re
G d
e n fie l
Connect to Bier Brewery!
8th St.
South St.
Allisonville Rd.
Av e
Herriman Blvd.
5thexplain St. how Midland downtown.
Carbon St.
Wellington Pkwy.
Access from Wellington Northeast to trail Create connection between Wellington Northeast + NPT.
Better wayfinding to
Restauarnts near trail with outdoor seating
Parking and restrooms
age le + ural
3rd St.
Pleasant St.
FISHING
Walnut St.
HOUSING
Gerald St.
Pretty trails and Natural trails nature area, like what is at Grand Kayak launch Junction (Westfield) Scenic vista (selfie station). Places to on near put phone w/ selfie timer. Fall trees!
OPEN / FLEXIBLE GREENSPACE
Historic Pleasant St.
L CONNECTIONS
BOAT LAUNCH
r ve Ri te hi W
IL
PLAYGROUND
Connect White River Greenway from Southside Park to RETAIL NPT.
Further trail connection for East Noblesville as well Connect to dog park? How Pleasant St connect? New police [station]?
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