University Park..................................................................Page D

preservation and enhancement techniques into parkland acquisition and development plans provides the City of Greenwood with a valuable preservation tool that helps protect ecologically valuable land for future generations, while at the same time providing immediate recreational benefits to the residents of the city.

Man-Made, Historical and Cultural Features

Greenwood’s growth can largely be attributed to the state and interstate highway system, as well as its proximity to Indianapolis. When Indianapolis was selected as the location for the permanent state capital in 1824, the prosperous future of Johnson County was assured. As Indianapolis grew, Johnson County – and her communities – grew, too. In all, around 259,000 people live within seven miles of Greenwood’s city center. In 2019, Johnson County’s estimated population was 158,167. Greenwood’s close proximity to downtown Indy offers easy access to firstclass arts entertainment, including dance and ballet; classic, musical, and contemporary theatres; opera; orchestras; and one of the nation’s few full-time professional symphony orchestras. Greenwood has become a key player in the Central Indiana economic corridor. Four area interchanges to Interstate 65 provide connection to various destinations. The I69 expansion (in progress) will parallel Greenwood’s west side and include three interchanges for further connections. State Road 135, US 31, and to a somewhat lesser degree, Madison Ave. and Emerson Ave. are commercial corridors. Transitional corridors exist along SR 431, US 31 and County Line Road providing efficient travel. Greenwood’s twenty miles of trails, pathways and greenways provide opportunities for an alternative means of travel and connections within the community for runners, walkers and bikers. Listed below are some of the recent changes, developments, urban renewal and economic development within the City: • Economic Development – As a part of the larger vision in downtown of walkability, and connecting local businesses, quality of life improvements has paid off in the addition of over 80 companies and nearly 4,000 new jobs in Greenwood since 2014. • Establishment of Municipal Riverfront Development –Greenwood Common Council established the Municipal Riverfront Development Project near Pleasant Creek and Pleasant Run Creek to encourage economic growth and development and draw additional dining, cultural and entertainment experiences to the area. • Adoption of Food & Beverage Tax – Upon adopted legislation by the Indiana Legislature allowing it to do so, the City of Greenwood adopted a 1% food and beverage tax applicable to certain food and beverage items within the municipal boundaries. The funds