Page last updated on July 8, 2024 at 9:26 am
City Requests Public Feedback on Hopewell Commons 1% for the Arts Installation Proposals
The public feedback period ended July 5. The Bloomington Arts Commission will use the public’s feedback to help select which artwork will be installed in Hopewell Commons.
Parks and Recreation will open its newest park space in 2024: Hopewell Commons!
Parks and Recreation has been involved in the city's redevelopment of the site of the former IU Health Bloomington Hospital since 2021. City leaders envisioned the new Hopewell neighborhood with a truly public space, and as a result Parks and Recreation worked with the City's Engineering Department and with Rundell Ernstberger Associates to design a park that will be a thriving anchor for the neighborhood. When the hospital was decommissioned, the Bloomington Redevelopment Commission acquired the land and many of its outbuildings, and began demolition of the existing structures to make room for construction of Hopewell East (the four-block area between Rogers and Morton Streets, and First and Second Streets).
While Parks and Recreation will celebrate the opening of Hopewell Commons in late 2024, work on the Hopewell neighborhood will continue for years. Multiple city departments are working together to solicit proposals for the development of surrounding lots that meet the city's goals for housing that is affordable, sustainable, and with the appropriate density. Development in the area surrounding Hopewell Commons may begin as early as 2025.
The new Hopewell Commons contains 126 trees, a "log scramble" play structure, a small performance stage, artificial lawn area, space for public art, seating, a covered pavilion, and more. Parks and Recreation is pleased to be a part of this significant city project, and to continue its role of making Bloomington a vibrant place to live, work, and play.