Mayor Scott Fadness announced plans today, May 30, to invest in a 70-acre waterfront park at Geist Reservoir.

The park will be developed at the last remaining undeveloped parcel of the 1,900-acre reservoir, at approximately at 111th Street on the east side of Olio Road.

“The Geist area is one of Fishers’ most distinct assets, and this park sets forth a momentum for the long-term sustainability of Geist Reservoir, its residents and our community at large,” Fadness stated in a press release. “In conversations with multiple residents and stakeholders, I’ve heard time and time again the argument that the long-term vibrancy of Geist is a concern. Part of that involves environmental, boat traffic and new development. My hope is that this park development helps to mitigate those concerns for residents and turn Geist into a distinct asset for all of Fishers.”

Conceptual designs of the park, to be named at a later date, show the possibilities of the park development: amphitheater, fishing dock, public beach, kayak, boardwalk, natural playscapes, and opportunities for adventure races, triathlons, paddle boarding and more.

The city says Fishers residents will have the opportunity to be involved in the final design of the park and that no motorized boat launch will be permitted in the park area.

“To have a major natural asset like we do with Geist Reservoir is a great opportunity to encourage residents to enjoy nature a little more and unplug,” Fishers Parks and Recreation Director Tony Elliot stated in a press release. “By adding public access to Geist, our entire community can enjoy this wonderful natural setting, and I look forward to working with the community as designs for this park start to come together. At nearly double (the size of) Roy G. Holland Memorial Park, the possibilities are endless.”

The land is made up of three separate parcels, held by two owners, Irving Materials, Inc. and Marina Limited Partnership. The City of Fishers submitted an offer to the owners to purchase the land outright.

The city says Negotiations are being kept confidential until final, and condemnation of the land is possible if an agreement cannot be reached, considering the public usage. Acquisition of the land will take several months, with final design process beginning late 2017 or early 2018.

Irving Materials Inc. currently operates a quarry on these parcels with anticipated operations ending in summer 2018. A Planned Unit Development was passed several years ago that would allow more development with intent to add just more than 100 homes.

“I hear from residents all the time that increasing boat traffic on Geist is the fastest way to reduce the recreational experience out there,” Fishers City Councilor Pete Peterson stated in a press release. “This is a real opportunity to utilize Fall Creek and connect the reservoir in a natural way to some of the most beautiful areas of our city. This is a win-win situation for Geist residents. By creating this natural recreation area and reducing new development, it will ultimately lessen the added boat traffic that comes with more homes and docks.”

Residents may direct questions or concerns to Dan Domsic at [email protected]. More information and updates can be found at www.fishers.in.us/GeistWaterfrontPark.