Fishers has become known as a thriving suburb for business, especially tech start-ups + bio-science firms. But the city is aiming for a reputation that includes much more than that.

Mayor Scott Fadness + city council are putting an emphasis on recreation in 2022 with several projects planned or already underway.

👟 Nickel Plate Trail

Paving has already been completed on portions of the trail between 146th St. + North St. and South St. to 106th St., but the project calls for several other additions along the trail — including a pedestrian tunnel (expected to open in late spring 2022), a 235-unit apartment complex, a five-story 112-room boutique hotel + a First Internet Bank headquarters.

In 2018, the trail asked the community for ideas to transform the space | Photo via Fishers Parks

🌊 Geist Waterfront Park

The first phase of the park (or the beach phase) — near the bridge at 109th St. + Olio Rd. — is about halfway done and is expected to be open for swimming by summer of 2023. There will be a 35-acre beach area with a kayak launch and fishing pier, a boardwalk with a cafe, outdoor seating, and three playgrounds.

The second phase of the park will be 35 acres of nature focused on trails, wetlands, woodlands, and picnic shelters. This part of the park won’t be finished until 2040.

🏀 Recreation Center

The city has plans to build a $40 million recreation center on city-owned land. The center will likely have an indoor pool, basketball courts, an indoor walking + running track, gym, weight + training rooms, classrooms, outdoor recreation areas, and a restaurant or cafe.

In a survey conducted by the city, more than 73% of those that responded said they wanted an indoor track. The next most popular requests were indoor swimming, open spaces, and a dog park.

These are just a few of the projects Fishers has in the works. Others include White River Park, Geist Greenway, and a Conner Prairie pedestrian bridge.