Shelton Heights Park

Shelton Heights Park, located in Indianapolis, Indiana, was transformed from a neglected trailer park into a thriving community greenspace through a collaborative initiative supported by Keep Indianapolis Beautiful (KIB) and local residents. This park stands as a testament to community resilience and environmental stewardship. Once plagued by crime and decay, the park's transformation began in 2016 when residents, led by community organizer Debbie Parish, decided to reclaim the space and create a green area that serves as both a recreational hub and a symbol of neighborhood pride.

By 2018, through KIB’s AES Indiana Project GreenSpace, Shelton Heights Park was redesigned with features aimed at fostering community engagement and promoting outdoor activities. The park includes walking trails, natural playgrounds, and seating areas. An art installation, developed in collaboration with landscape architects and residents, adds a creative and cultural dimension to the park, reflecting the neighborhood's spirit. Furthermore, the park serves as a living classroom, offering education on urban ecology and sustainable environmental practices.

Shelton Heights Park not only provides a space for recreation and relaxation but has also contributed to tangible community improvements. Studies have highlighted the park’s role in reducing gun violence and encouraging a healthier environment for the surrounding areas. Wildlife such as birds, squirrels, rabbits, and occasionally deer, now inhabit the park, which further enriches the local ecosystem and offers visitors a chance to observe nature in an urban setting.