INDIANAPOLIS — The Indiana War Memorial is one of Indianapolis' most scenic buildings, but you may have noticed an unsightly addition on its south side. A towering structure over its steps will likely remain there until at least September.
The structure is scaffolding which leads directly to the War Memorial's top room. Indiana War Memorials Commission director Stewart Goodwin explains it is a necessity for the construction work happening within the building.
"Some water had seeped through the roof and the ceiling is plaster...water and plaster don't mix," Goodwin said. "With the amount of labor it was going to take to carry things up the steps, and the time it would have taken to do that, time and money are what contractors are all about."
Goodwin estimates the scaffolding is at least 70 feet tall. He said he has noticed how curious visitors have become about the structure.
"It's funny what people think about it," Goodwin said. "We've even had people ask if we're building a wing onto the War Memorial."
Ash Loveday is also wondering what the scaffolding is there for.
"I actually went over there on top of the memorial and took some photos of it because it looked kind of cool," Loveday said. "I'd be surprised if anyone wasn't tempted to just walk on there. It'd be a great place to sit, I guess."
The public is not allowed to walk on the structure.
In addition to the work on the War Memorial, construction crews are also replacing the roof on the nearby American Legion headquarters.
-
Showing up and showing out on the biggest stage in basketball
At every home game, the Pacers Entertainment Teams show their support for the Pacers. Their intricate routines keep the crowd engaged and fired up.
Learning life lessons from the Pacers
One young fan is applying the lessons he's learned from the Pacers in everyday life. That mindset of never being out of the game and never giving up.
The voices of the Pacers create an unforgettable moment in the NBA Finals
Media worlds collided during Game 3 of the NBA Finals. Pacers radio announcer Mark Boyle teamed up with TV play-by-play caller Chris Denari during the NBA Finals.
Pacers still call Indiana home thanks to Herb and Mel Simon
The Simon brothers bought the Pacers for $11 million in 1983. Herb Simon is now the longest-tenured owner in the NBA and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame just before this season.
