Mayor Joe Hogsett joined community leaders to announce the demolition and next phases of the Towne and Terrace townhome complex on the city’s Far Eastside.
The project began with the demolition of eight vacant buildings at the complex, a multi-agency effort that marks the next phase for the troubled townhomes.
The Towne and Terrace townhome complex was built in the 1960s and, while it was once a neighborhood staple for Indy, was marred in recent history by HOA neglect, illegal drug activity and public health and safety concerns.
“We recognize that Towne and Terrace was once home to many. It was a place where memories were made and children grew up — but over time, it became a place of violence and a source of pain,” Hogsett said. “Between acquiring properties, assisting residents with relocation and now demolishing eight derelict buildings, multiple City agencies are committed to helping breathe new life into this Far Eastside neighborhood.”
The demolition follows a years-long battle and settlement between the city and Towne and Terrace Corp., the complex’s homeowners’ association. The order tasked the city with acquiring all remaining non-city-owned properties at the complex, relocating Towne and Terrace residents to safe and sanitary housing and carrying out a plan for demolition and redevelopment.
The city owns 239 of the 258 parcels at the complex, but many of the remaining are vacant and are in the process of being acquired from private owners. The first building was demolished in April 2023, and the remaining 23 buildings are expected to be demolished by early 2026.
Once the demolition is complete, the community-involved redevelopment process will continue to move forward.
“By prioritizing their safety and well-being, we are not only addressing past challenges but also paving the way for a revitalized community that offers hope and opportunity for all,” said Rena Allen, City-County Councilor District 15.
Through aid from the federal American Rescue Plant Act, the city has allotted $14.4 million to the project, which includes funds for acquisition, relocation, demolition and maintenance.
“This effort represents a significant step forward for the Far Eastside community,” said State Sen. La Keisha Jackson. “It’s about more than clearing away buildings; it’s about restoring hope, improving public safety and laying the foundation for a brighter, stronger future for the families who call this neighborhood home.”
Since the demolition began, IMPD has already seen a decrease in service calls and overall violent crime.
“This process allows us to create safer neighborhoods and improve public safety measures, all while working to connect residents with the resources they need for a brighter future,” East District Commander Michael Leepper said.
A team was hired to oversee the acquisition and relocation of eligible residents, including providing financial assistance for moving expenses, payment to purchase or rent a different home and providing residents with community resources like workforce programs, health services, legal support and more.
“I did not want to leave my home in Towne and Terrace at first, but the City’s relocation efforts have been a game changer for tenants and owners alike,” said Liz Durden, community leader. “They have significantly helped the community.”
Roughly 20 households remain for relocation and are expected to be complete by the spring of 2025.
For more information, visit indy.gov\activity/towne-and-terrace-information-guide.
This reporting is made possible by a grant from the Indianapolis African-American Quality of Life Initiative, empowering our community with essential health insights. https://iaaqli.org/
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Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
