Bloomington officials announced a new citywide gift card initiative to encourage residents to support local businesses. The program aims to boost community engagement and stimulate the local economy during the holiday shopping season.
The City of Bloomington has released a comprehensive report detailing its strategies to address homelessness and improve housing conditions. The report outlines investments in affordable housing, support for local shelters, and enhanced public safety measures, reflecting the city’s commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for residents.
The City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department received national re-accreditation from CAPRA at the NRPA conference on September 15. This recognition highlights the department's commitment to high operational standards and quality services for the community. Bloomington is among only three accredited parks departments in Indiana and ranks 213 nationwide.
Bloomington city leaders will host a District 6 Traveling Town Hall on November 12, 2025, at the Monroe Carnegie Library. Residents can engage with officials to discuss community issues and initiatives. This event aims to foster communication between citizens and city leaders.
Kirkwood Avenue in Bloomington will reopen to vehicle traffic and parking on November 12, following a period of closure. This reopening is part of ongoing efforts to improve local infrastructure and ease traffic congestion in the area.
Controlled deer hunts will occur at Griffy Lake to promote forest health and plant diversity. The event is scheduled for November 6, 2025, in Bloomington, Indiana. Local officials aim to balance wildlife management and ecosystem preservation.
The City of Bloomington's fiber internet project, in partnership with Meridiam/mStreet Fiber, is over 50% complete and aims for completion by the end of 2026. Construction paused earlier this year due to the collapse of the primary contractor, AEG, but has resumed with ongoing repairs and new construction areas being established. The project will expand high-speed internet access to thousands of residents, particularly in housing authority communities.
The City of Bloomington allocated $46,000 in emergency funding to Hoosier Hills Food Bank to support food access amid a federal government shutdown that paused SNAP benefits for over 16,000 individuals. This funding will facilitate the distribution of 330,000 pounds of food, providing essential meals to affected residents.
The Madison Common Council invites the community to a second discussion on housing issues in Bloomington, Indiana, scheduled for October 31, 2025. The event aims to foster community engagement and address local housing concerns.
The City of Bloomington will provide free leaf collection services weekly until December 31, 2025. This initiative aims to assist residents with yard maintenance and improve sanitation in the area.
The Bloomington Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Celebration Commission seeks nominations for the 2026 Legacy Award, honoring individuals or organizations that embody Dr. King's values. Nominations are due by December 1, 2025, and must come from Monroe County residents or organizations with at least one year of local service. The award will be presented at the city's annual King Birthday Celebration in January.
Applications for the Parks and Recreation Summer Concert Series opened on October 21, 2025, inviting musicians to participate in upcoming performances. The event will take place in Bloomington, Indiana, highlighting local talent in the community. Interested applicants can find more information on the official website.
The City of Bloomington temporarily closes the Rail Trail at Rogers Street starting October 20 for road crossing improvements. The closure affects a 1.23-mile stretch south of Country Club Drive and is scheduled to last for up to 30 days. Accessibility upgrades include a pedestrian-activated beacon and new lighting.
Bloomington has received a two-year recertification as a Bird Town Indiana community from Indiana Audubon, acknowledging local efforts to enhance bird habitats and public engagement. The city has implemented sustainable practices, including increasing native plant use and expanding tree canopy areas, since its initial certification in 2016. This recognition highlights the collaboration between various conservation partners and the community's commitment to biodiversity.
Mayor Kerry Thomson will host a Traveling Town Hall aboard Bloomington Transit Route 2 on October 15 from 3 to 5 p.m. Residents can engage directly with the mayor, sharing ideas and questions while experiencing the transit service. The initiative aims to enhance government accessibility and responsiveness.
The City of Bloomington awarded $55,000 in Digital Opportunity Grants to 14 local nonprofits to enhance digital literacy. The funding aims to empower communities in Monroe County and surrounding areas by improving access to digital resources.
Bloomington officials will host two public open houses on October 28 and 30 to discuss the College Avenue and Walnut Street corridor study. The study aims to enhance user safety and economic opportunities, with proposals for either maintaining one-way streets or converting them to two-way. Community feedback will be collected to inform the final design.
The City of Bloomington opens its 2025 Local-Motion Grant Program to promote pedestrian and bicycle mobility. Nonprofit organizations, neighborhood associations, and local businesses can apply for grants up to $2,400 for projects enhancing active transportation. Applications are due by November 3.
Bloomington residents can provide input on the Parks and Recreation Department’s five-year master plan at an interactive workshop on October 7. This workshop is one of the final opportunities for community feedback before a survey is mailed to select households.
Bloomington's Kirkwood Library block will reopen to vehicle traffic and parking on Friday, Oct. 3. This change comes after a period of restricted access, affecting local traffic patterns and library operations. The adjustment aims to facilitate better access for library visitors and residents.
The City of Bloomington will collaborate with AccessAbleUSA to produce accessibility guides for downtown businesses, enhancing inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. This initiative aims to improve access to local businesses, thereby promoting sustainable development and economic growth.
The City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) announced that construction upgrades to water and sanitary sewer near West Second and Rogers streets are ahead of schedule. The intersection will close from 8 p.m. on Sept. 29 to 8 a.m. on Sept. 30 for connection work and concrete pouring.
The City of Bloomington Utilities plans a temporary lane restriction on South Sare Rd. for a fire hydrant replacement on September 29, 2025. Work will commence at 9 a.m. and is expected to conclude by 2 p.m., with no interruptions to water service anticipated.
Bloomington residents are invited to participate in a hands-on sustainability challenge in October, aimed at promoting sustainable development within the community. The event will take place at 401 N Morton Street Suite 150, Bloomington, Indiana, starting on September 19, 2025. This initiative emphasizes local engagement in climate solutions and sustainability practices.
