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Businesses navigate reconstruction on Georgia Street near Convention Center

Last Updated 2 weeks by Amnon J. Jobi | Amnon Front Page

Navigating change for renewal on Indianapolis’ Georgia Street

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Some businesses near Georgia Street downtown between the Indiana Convention Center and Gainbridge Fieldhouse are bracing for significant reconstruction that could impact their bottom lines.

The western portion of Georgia Street will get a long-awaited redesign and close until 2026.

The Capital Improvement Board and Indianapolis government are redesigning Georgia Street into a pedestrian-friendly area with green spaces and seating, hoping to boost its appeal.

However, local businesses are facing some challenges during this transition. For one coffee house, located just a stone’s throw from the street reconstruction site, the anticipated loss of foot traffic has raised some concerns. “Well, of course, we are a little apprehensive because we don’t know exactly what it will entail,” said the owner and operator of Georgia Street Grind, Chris Clay.

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Since construction began on the Signia Hotel project along Georgia Street, the owner of Georgia Street Grund has remained optimistic about the future despite the significant changes and fluctuating foot traffic. “We haven’t seen much impact since Georgia Street is still open. We have noticed that Illinois (Street) has changed slightly because of that closure. But, as far as the foot traffic between here and the Convention Center, Gainbridge, and Lucas (Oil Stadium), it’s pretty much what it was last year.”

Down the street, Tom’s Watch Bar also faces a similar predicament. The popular sports bar, known for its lively atmosphere and many TV screens, relies on a steady flow of foot traffic, especially during major sporting events. Damien Kostick operating partner for Tom’s Watch Bar, said, “I’m sure at first it’ll be a little hesitant for people to walk there. You know? I’m sure a lot is going on, and there are some cautionary feelings. But generally speaking, they have roped things off, been very safe, and have done a great job at ensuring they manage that. The key is ensuring people know there is still a walkway there to use.”

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“Don’t let the construction deter you! It’s temporary, and in the long run, it’ll be good gains for Indianapolis!” Kostick added.

While both Georgia Street Grind and Tom’s Watch Bar are navigating the immediate impacts of the road closure, they also remain hopeful about the eventual benefits of the pedestrian-friendly redesign.

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Megan Vukusich, director of the Department of Metropolitan Development, said, “The outcome we aim toward after the improvements are done is for a park-like setting. It’ll help support the existing developments in the area. So, it’ll serve as the outdoor amenity space for the Convention Center and support new developments that we’re seeing along Georgia Street, as well as additional public space opportunities.”

The Department of Metropolitan Development says that while a portion of Georgia Street will eventually not be accessible by vehicle, a designated lane for first responders will be completed by spring 2026.

South downtown vision plan preliminary rendering. (Provided Image/Indianapolis Department of Metropolitan Development)
(Provided Image/Department of Metropolitan Development)