Greenwood Approves Plans for Two Big Projects

rending of the Fieldhouse in Greenwood (image courtesy of The city of Greenwood)

The city of Greenwood is advancing two major projects designed to improve the quality of life for residents and visitors. The Greenwood Redevelopment Commission awarded construction contracts for a new fieldhouse in Old Town Greenwood and an extension of the Madison Avenue streetscape project.

The city says the fieldhouse will anchor redevelopment of the former Greenwood Middle School in the heart of downtown, known locally as Old Town.

“We committed to a design providing diverse opportunities for public recreation. The new fieldhouse will offer something for all ages and ability levels,” said Rob Taggart, Greenwood Parks & Recreation director.

Plans call for the property’s north gymnasium to be repurposed as a new recreational facility with an elevated indoor running and walking track, two multi-purpose turf fields for soccer, lacrosse and other sports, as well as basketball and volleyball courts and several indoor pickle ball courts.

The city says current and future projects include construction of apartments and townhomes, potential retail and office space, new or upgraded open space, as well as new and reconstructed streetscapes.

“Our plans for the future of downtown create a thriving city core that is walkable and connected to trails, parks and dynamic public gathering spaces,” said Mayor Mark Myers. “We’ll have diverse, authentic amenities, seamless integration of greenspace and opportunities for all ages to live, work and play in downtown Greenwood. The fieldhouse redevelopment and Madison Avenue transformation are key to these efforts, and we’re extremely pleased to be moving forward on both projects.”

The city says plans are still conceptual while city officials continue discussions with private developers.

Construction of the fieldhouse is expected to be complete in 2021.

Meanwhile, the next phase of the city’s Madison Avenue construction is now moving north beyond Noble Street to Fry Road. The city says the project includes an upgraded multi-use trail, marked pedestrian crosswalks and several streetscape improvements.

“The new Madison Avenue will provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy a more walkable downtown,” said Mayor Mark Myers. 

Myers says the pedestrian-friendly streetscapes and increased foot traffic are expected to create a change of environment that will generate interest from other retail and restaurant business owners.