RESTRUCTURING OF THE NWQOL TO THE Near Northwest (NNW)

By Carolyn Watts, Planners Neighborhood Assoc.

The Northwest Quality of Life Plan, also known as NWQOL, a city initiative, began in 2014 to improve the quality of life in the near northwest neighborhoods of Indianapolis.

From these resident-driven plans, conducted by Community Builders and a governing body of resolute residents and stakeholders, this Near Northwest Quality of Life Plan continues. Goals have been reached and are no longer relevant. The Plan has and is working.

The NWQOL committees' "Unity in Motion" initiative led to developments like rebranding and producing electronic and print newsletters, including The Exchange. The colorful quarterly print newsletter is delivered by mail. The monthly newsletter is electronic.

Riverside Civic League is one of our long-term neighborhood associations. The Riverside Promenade trail stretches 1.5 miles. Nodes throughout the trail highlight the history of the riverside and the city of Indianapolis. Riverside Regional Park is in this area. Riverside Park was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

The Northwest Landing Neighborhood Association (formerly Northwest Civic Association) is working to restore its neighborhood. The former firehouse at Rader and Udell Streets has been transformed into The Aspire Higher Foundation. It hosted neighborhood gatherings. Sunday Supper, along with other programs and initiatives, is centered around health, wellness, and education. They are under construction for their Artful Journey Studio and Grow House.

As we look at the progress of the NNW, more information about other neighborhoods will be presented.