Shelton Heights Park

From Forgotten Land to Community Haven

Remember that abandoned trailer park on Rockville Ave? Well, it's been transformed. Shelton Heights Park was developed from a neglected patch of land into a community green space through the combined efforts of Keep Indianapolis Beautiful (KIB) and local residents committed to improving their neighborhood.

Back in 2016, this spot wasn't exactly a neighborhood highlight - crime and decay had taken over. That's when community champion Debbie Parish rallied her neighbors to reclaim and reimagine the space. Today, Miss Debbie still looks after the park with loving care, making sure it stays welcoming for everyone who stops by.

What You'll Find Here

By 2018, the transformation was complete through KIB's AES Indiana Project GreenSpace. Now, you can follow the paved walking trails that loop around the park - great for a casual stroll or your morning jog. Kids have their own space to explore with natural playgrounds featuring swings, slides, and tunnels that blend into the landscape rather than dominate it.

Planning a small family get-together? Several seating areas with benches and picnic tables dot the grounds, and there are grills available if you're in the mood for a cookout. The generous shade from mature trees makes even summer visits comfortable, while native wildflowers add splashes of color throughout the seasons.

One of the park's unique touches is its art installation featuring glass pieces - a collaborative creation between landscape architects and residents that captures the neighborhood's spirit without saying a word.

Far From Just Green Space

What makes Shelton Heights notable is how it functions for the community beyond recreation. This privately-run but publicly accessible park hosts a charming street library where you can grab a book or leave one for someone else to discover. There's also a free food pantry cabinet stocked with non-perishables - a thoughtful resource for neighbors in need.

All year long, the park comes alive with community events organized by local volunteers who pour their hearts into keeping this special place thriving.

Learning in the Open Air

The park doubles as an outdoor classroom of sorts, offering insights into urban ecology and sustainable practices just by walking its grounds.

Studies have shown that this green space has helped reduce gun violence in the area, creating a safer and healthier environment for everyone nearby.

Nature in the City

Look closely and you might spot the park's wild residents - birds, squirrels, and rabbits are regular sights, while deer occasionally wander through. Some lucky visitors have even caught glimpses of foxes slipping between the trees.

And yes, your four-legged friends are welcome here too. The park is notably dog-friendly, but you'll need to clean up after your pup and follow the usual park courtesies.