Every ROW waterway community brings diversity and surprises that are as unique as the waterways that run through them. That was demonstrated during a recent Sunday afternoon as several members of the Little Eagle Creek (LEC) Waterway Committee set out to explore potential sites for engagement and projects, seeking opportunities in both commercial and residential areas. They were, over and over again, pleasantly surprised with what they found.
Beginning at Community Healthplex, the walk traced along the creek through Ethel Acres neighborhood to 30th street, where in a somewhat hidden spot between commercial areas, the group met neighbors who regularly walk from their side- or backyards to the creek to walk dogs or for personal reflection and relaxation.
Farther west in the Eagledale neighborhood, the quieter nodes along Falcon Creek, a tributary of Little Eagle Creek, were explored. The two streams meet just inside the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a location in which the LEC Committee is excited to create opportunities and new relationships.
The Sunday adventure ended at Commercial Drive, where sparsely populated strip mall buildings are anchored by thriving hubs of activity at the International Marketplace Coalition and Saraga International Grocery. The LEC walkers stopped just shy of a bridge over the creek and were surprised to see horses and riders crossing the bridge, some still wet from wading in the waterway below!
This recent winter afternoon illustrates how getting out, connecting with spaces and the people (and animals) that occupy them, can bring unexpected joys. Hitting the streets and trails that day was the best way to appreciate some of the unique opportunities that exist along our waterways.
Join us in our latest waterway adventures by attending the next Little Eagle Creek Committee Meeting or getting involved in a waterway effort in your community by contacting [email protected].