WESTFIELD — The fastest-growing city in Indiana is finishing up projects to grow its downtown.
Westfield has already finished Grand Junction Plaza, a central park with a stage and playground. A five-story apartment building under construction across the street from the plaza could welcome its first residents as soon as this month.
"Downtown looked nothing like this when I moved here," said Kimberly Armstrong, who has lived in Westfield for 15 years. "It was pretty desolate here."
Westfield has grown from nearly 10,000 residents in 2000 to more than 50,000 residents today, according to census data.
Armstrong says the downtown makeover reflects the city's needs as it continues to grow. She often walks three miles to Grand Junction Plaza with her granddaughter so she can use the playground.
"Before you had to drive everywhere, now it's a little more walker-friendly," Armstrong said.
Erynn Petruzzi has watched Grand Junction Plaza take shape from her wine and gift shop, Something Splendid, for three years. She is optimistic that the new residents in the high-rise can keep downtown lively throughout the day.
"I can't wait for more growth," Petruzzi said. "We are lacking organic foot traffic. Every day, even after three years in business, we hear, 'I didn't know you existed. It helps us grow."
The housing development will also include new businesses on the ground floor, such as a pizzeria, an ice cream shop, an acai bowl establishment and a combination bakery and grooming place for dogs.
-
Indianapolis Indians partner with GANGGANG to honor Negro Leagues
The Indianapolis Indians are teaming up with GANGGANG to honor the history of the Negro Leagues and Black baseball in the city.
Indianapolis hosts dedication ceremony for new Black Heritage stamp
In honor of Black History Month, the United States Postal Service chose Indianapolis for the dedication ceremony of a new Black Heritage stamp honoring a poet.
Kokomo man charged after wife dies, infant injured in shooting
A Kokomo man is facing charges after his wife was killed and their one-month-old infant was injured in a shooting Tuesday night.
What to know about the NFL Combine in Indianapolis this week
The 2026 NFL Combine is taking place at Lucas Oil Stadium through March 1, bringing hundreds of top prospects to the city for medical evaluations, team interviews and on-field workouts.
