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Willis Tower – ULI Americas Awards for Excellence Finalist
Learn more about 2022 ULI Americas Awards for Excellence Finalist, Willis Tower (Chicago, IL).
May 11, 2022
Location: Carmel, Indiana, USA
Developers: City of Carmel; Carmel Redevelopment Commission; Carmel Midtown Building Corporation
Designers: Rundell Ernstberger Associates (REA); Gehl; Speck
Site Size: 7.4 Acres
Monon Boulevard & Midtown Plaza is a bold example of strategic investment in visionary public space as a catalyst for economic development, public engagement, civic pride, celebrations, artistic expression, and personal and environmental wellbeing.
As part of the 2012 Midtown Master Plan, Monon Boulevard expands the former “rails-to-trails” Monon Greenway project into a complete street, providing accessibility and multi-modal transportation options through dedicated sidewalks, high speed and local bike lanes, and roadway. Often referred to as Carmel’s “beach-front property,” Monon Boulevard is the backbone of Carmel spurring the rebirth of a formerly abandoned industrial corridor into the thriving Midtown redevelopment area. Providing a local connection from Carmel’s Art & Design District to City Center and bikeable connection to neighboring Indianapolis, Westfield, and Sheridan, the district now hosts a diverse mix of residents, workers, and visitors with opportunities to engage with the community in meaningful and accessible ways.
Midtown Plaza, the largest recreation area integrated into the project, has become the “backyard” for the many apartment dwellers and workers in the district and a popular destination for more remote Carmel residents and visitors. Carmel provided 124 events in 2021, from Movies at Midtown and lunchtime concerts to the International Arts Festival, Holiday Trolley rides, and talent competitions open to people of all ages. Every day, children can be found playing on the lawn while their parents play outdoor billiards and enjoy the local brewery or taproom. Teens are often spotted playing ping-pong or chatting with friends on the adult swings.
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