Bloomington celebrated Arbor Day by planting 15 trees in Olcott Park with the help of over 40 volunteers. The city also marked its 41st consecutive year as a Tree City USA and announced Bryan Park's new designation as a Level 1 Accredited Arboreta.
Bloomington officials seek nominations for the SWAGGAR Awards, recognizing youth who exemplify kindness, respect, and personal growth. The nomination period opens on Tuesday, May 7, 2025, at 3:42 PM local time. This initiative aims to celebrate positive contributions made by students in the community.
The City of Bloomington expands its Solar, Energy Efficiency, & Lighting (SEEL) Grant Program to include battery energy storage systems for nonprofits. Eligible nonprofits can receive up to $45,000 in grant funding, enabling them to store solar energy for peak usage times, enhancing energy efficiency and resilience.
The City of Bloomington will host its annual Juneteenth Celebration at Switchyard Park on May 6, 2025. The event commemorates the Emancipation Proclamation and honors the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and Gordon Granger. Local officials encourage community participation in this significant observance.
The City of Bloomington will conduct a comprehensive parking study starting May 5, 2025, to assess parking policies, rates, and operations. The initiative aims to enhance parking technology and improve overall efficiency in the city.
Mayor Kerry Thomson addressed the uncertainty caused by recent federal immigration enforcement in Bloomington, emphasizing the city's limited authority in this area. She encouraged residents to seek guidance from local legal service providers specializing in immigration law. The mayor expressed her commitment to supporting the community despite the challenges posed by federal actions.
The City of Bloomington will honor exemplary volunteers during the 2025 Be More Awards Ceremony on April 23, 2025. The event, hosted at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the community through volunteer work. This celebration aims to highlight the importance of volunteering in Monroe County.
Bloomington officials invite public input on statewide transportation projects at an event on April 22, 2025. The gathering will take place at Bloomington City Hall, focusing on enhancing local transit and infrastructure. Community engagement aims to shape future planning for the region.
The City of Bloomington, Monroe County, Ellettsville, and Stinesville have collectively secured over $3.7 million in funding for infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing road safety and accessibility. The financial support comes from the Federal Highway Administration’s Highway Safety Improvement Program and INDOT’s Community Crossings Matching Grant, facilitating significant local projects. Mayor Kerry Thomson emphasized the importance of leveraging external resources to improve infrastructure without burdening local taxpayers.
The City of Bloomington is seeking volunteers for a Downtown Community Cleanup Day on May 5, 2025, in preparation for Indiana University's graduation weekend. The event aims to enhance the downtown area's appearance and foster community spirit, with participation from city staff and Mayor Kerry Thomson. Volunteers can register online to join this collaborative effort to beautify local public spaces.
Nominations are now open for the prestigious Human Rights Award, as announced by the Bloomington Human Rights Commission. The award recognizes organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions to civil and political rights. This initiative aims to highlight the importance of human rights advocacy within the community and beyond.
Bloomington is set to celebrate the grand opening of Hopewell Commons, its newest park, on April 23, 2025. The event will feature an opening ceremony highlighting local contributions and community engagement. This initiative reflects the city's commitment to enhancing public spaces and promoting outdoor activities.
The Bloomington/Monroe County Human Rights Commission has announced the winners of the 2025 Human Rights Art & Essay Contest, which encouraged local students in grades K-6 to explore the theme of diversity. Twelve winners were recognized in both art and essay categories, with a celebration ceremony planned for April 24. This initiative highlights the importance of inclusion and empathy within the community.
Nikeshia Fomby has been appointed as the new Public Engagement Director for Bloomington, aiming to enhance community involvement in local government. With over 20 years of experience in community development and public service, Fomby plans to foster transparency and collaboration. Her leadership is expected to empower residents and ensure their voices are integral to city decision-making.
Mayor Kerry Thomson addressed the City of Bloomington's fiber project, highlighting significant delays and issues stemming from the construction by Atlantic Engineering Group (AEG), which has now dissolved. The project, aimed at expanding high-speed internet access, has faced management challenges and safety violations, prompting the city to pause further installations while remediation efforts are underway. The Mayor emphasized the city's commitment to digital equity and the importance of completing the project with care and quality.
The Griffy Lake Boathouse is set to open for the 2025 season on April 5, featuring a farmers' market that promises to attract local vendors and visitors. This event not only highlights the region's commitment to supporting local agriculture but also enhances community engagement through food and drink offerings. Located at 401 N Morton St, Bloomington, Indiana, the market will provide a vibrant atmosphere for residents and tourists alike.
The City of Bloomington is hosting a public unveiling of a new public artwork titled OT 987 by Berlin-based artist Stefan Reiss on April 10, 2025. This interactive sculpture, part of the city's One Percent for the Arts program, aims to enhance civic spaces and promote community engagement. The event will include remarks from city officials and a reception featuring music and food, welcoming all attendees.
A Flood Watch has been issued for Monroe County by the National Weather Service, prompting the City of Bloomington to advise residents, particularly those in flood-prone areas, to take precautionary measures. Essential steps include developing a risk plan, preparing homes with sandbags, establishing communication plans, and assembling emergency kits. The article emphasizes the importance of obtaining local floodplain development permits for flood-related repairs to avoid hefty fines.
The City of Bloomington has announced an innovative transit initiative, the Bloomington Monorail, designed to enhance connectivity across the city with a solar-powered system. This whimsical proposal includes futuristic features such as holographic announcements and binoculars for scenic views. While the project aims to address transit challenges, it also embraces the city's quirky character, making it a lighthearted April Fool's Day announcement.
The City of Bloomington has finalized plans for the Kirkwood Avenue Pedestrian Season, set to run from April 4 to November 10, 2025. This initiative transforms parts of the street into pedestrian-friendly areas, enhancing accessibility and promoting local businesses. The program aims to boost economic activity and improve walkability in downtown Bloomington.
Bloomington's Parks and Recreation Department is utilizing nearly $1 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to enhance accessibility across its facilities. Key projects include upgrades at Building Trades Park, the introduction of a new wheelchair-accessible mini bus, and the installation of push-button doors at community centers. These initiatives aim to create inclusive environments for all community members.
The City of Bloomington is actively seeking residents to join various boards and commissions, providing opportunities for community engagement in local governance. These positions, which include roles in the Human Rights Commission, Board of Public Safety, and several others, allow individuals to influence policy-making and community initiatives. Interested residents are encouraged to apply for the available seats, which are appointed by different city officials.
The City of Bloomington is gathering public input on the 10th Street Safety Project, aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility for all modes of travel along a critical corridor. Residents are encouraged to participate through an online survey or by attending a public meeting on April 3, 2025, where city staff will provide information and collect feedback. This initiative is part of the Safe Streets for All program, responding to identified safety concerns and traffic patterns in the area.
The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) plans to install an all-way stop at the intersection of State Road 45 and Smith Road in Bloomington, starting March 28, 2025. This initiative aims to enhance safety and mobility by reducing the risk of right-angle crashes. Drivers are advised to approach the intersection with caution during the transition.
