Martindale Brightwood, a historic neighborhood in Indianapolis, has long been a vibrant hub for the city’s Black community. However, like many underserved areas, it has faced numerous challenges, including disinvestment and negative media. To address these issues and uplift the community, a Quality-of-Life Plan is currently underway. A two-year process led by a coalition of neighborhood residents and stakeholders this comprehensive plan aims to empower residents, preserve their cultural heritage, and foster equitable development. In December 2022, the coalition secured Black Onyx Management, a black-owned applied research firm and management consultancy, to facilitate the plan’s development. The plan seeks to create a brighter future for Martindale Brightwood, by utilizing data-driven insights and community input.
A Quality-of-Life Plan is a strategic roadmap for community investment and development. It identifies priorities and outlines actionable strategies to enhance various aspects of residents’ lives, including economic development, housing, infrastructure, education, public safety, and more. These plans are especially crucial for underserved communities, such as Martindale Brightwood, where historical disinvestment has perpetuated inequities.
Prior to the pandemic, Martindale Brightwood had already recognized the need for a Quality-of-Life Plan, with the most recent version having expired in 2020. However, the unforeseen challenges posed by the pandemic diverted attention and resources from quality-of-life planning. COVID hit the Black and senior community in stark and disproportionate ways. Martindale Brightwood was no different and quickly shifted priorities to meet the community where they were at, economically, health-wise, and more.
Black Onyx Management has taken a proactive approach to ensure that the Quality-of-Life Plan for Martindale Brightwood is rooted in accurate data. By capturing both qualitative and quantitative information, the firm aims to build a comprehensive understanding of the neighborhood’s needs and strengths. This data-driven approach enables evidence-based decision-making and ensures that the plan reflects the realities of the community. To date, the Black Onyx Management team has completed 20 one on one interviews with thought leaders, engaged 40 key stakeholders, reviewed every media story about the community in 2022, and analyzed social and economic data for the current state of the community.
On June 22, 2023, Martindale Brightwood held a Townhall Discussion to involve residents in the Quality-of-Life Planning process. Over 80 residents and community stakeholders attended the event, where they learned about the work being facilitated by Black Onyx Management and provided valuable insights on the future state of their community. This participatory approach empowers residents to shape their own narrative and contribute to the development of the plan.
Among many challenges articulated by those in attendance, preservation of the neighborhood’s rich identity through the provision of sustainable, affordable housing options was a prevailing demand.
“Our community has concerns about the potential displacement of current residents through gentrification and property acquisitions by developers, “said Phyllis Banks, President of OneVoice Martindale Brightwood and a respected resident leader.
Marshawn Wolley, President, and CEO of Black Onyx Management emphasized “Quality of Life planning must be asset-based and equity-oriented. By focusing on equity, the plan aims to mitigate the historical inequities faced by marginalized communities and promote inclusive growth.”
The Quality-of-Life Plan for Martindale Brightwood will progress with strategy sessions that address priority areas such as economic development, housing & infrastructure, education, and more. These sessions will bring together stakeholders, including residents, local organizations, and government officials, to devise targeted strategies that address the community’s most pressing needs. Additionally, community-based surveys will provide an avenue for direct input from Martindale Brightwood residents, ensuring that their voices are heard throughout the planning process.
“Martindale Brightwood’s Quality of Life Plan represents a vital opportunity to uplift and revitalize a historically marginalized community,” Wolley added “By leveraging data, community input, and an equity-oriented approach, this comprehensive community plan will address the specific needs and aspirations of Martindale Brightwood’s residents. We commit to ensuring all voices are heard, and the community’s heartbeat remains at the forefront.”
With an anticipated completion in November, organizers will immediately seek city certification to endorse the neighborhood’s articulated demands to create lasting positive change, foster economic opportunities, and preserve the community’s cultural heritage.
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