INDIANAPOLIS — Fountain Square is now one of the most popular places for people in Indianapolis to spend a night on the town. It's a stark contrast to the dangerous reputation the neighborhood had 30 years ago.
The turnaround intensified after May 4, 1995: the day the Indianapolis Police Department opened its Southeast District headquarters right next to the center of Fountain Square.
"If you didn't know the way it was before, seeing the way it is now is hard to comprehend," said IMPD Southeast District Commander Ron Hicks. "There used to be a lot of strip clubs. Officers used to deal with fights at bars basically every night of the week. Now, there is very little of that activity."
Hicks was an officer who knew the danger of Fountain Square before the district headquarters opened. He believes the city's investment into safety helped spark the neighborhood's revival.
"There is a new apartment building that was built right in front of our headquarters," Hicks said. "Developers are spending a lot of money in the heart of Fountain Square. I think part of that is because our police headquarters is there."
Scott O'Harra grew up in Fountain Square and recalls how gritty it was in his younger days.
"Out of all of the neighborhoods, we were the roughest," O'Harra said. "If you came and you messed around, we didn't take it."
O'Harra said it is surreal to see how much the neighborhood has changed since then.
"I love that art galleries and live music came," O'Harra said. "There are nice restaurants and things, that's what makes my heart hopeful for the neighborhood."
-
ICE detainee dies in custody at Miami Correctional Facility in Indiana
Federal immigration officials say that a man in custody at the Miami Correctional Facility died on Monday.
Crash survivor, prosecutors question early release program for offenders
A new push is underway to reduce the number of convicted felons who are released from prison early as a result of a state program.
Beech Grove Schools plans 'Blue-Out' to honor fallen officer Brian Elliott
Beech Grove City Schools will hold a districtwide "Blue-Out" on Thursday to honor fallen police officer Brian Elliott, a graduate of Beech Grove High School who was killed in the line of duty Monday.
Spectrum offers $25K reward after cable attacks hit Indianapolis
Spectrum is asking for the public's help after a series of attacks on communication cables in Indianapolis disrupted internet and phone service for customers.
