03/27/2026
This is a long one so buckle up and enjoy the ride of information! 📖 here is a good summary of our time with Major Jensen and the team of city officials that came.
Infrastructure & Roads: Major upgrades are planned for Olio Road (2027–2028) and Boden Road. State Road 37 is slated for significant interchange improvements starting around 2031.
• Development: New housing developments like Gatewood Lakes and Del Webb are underway. Noblesville is also the new home for USA Gymnastics; all Olympic gymnasts will train there starting in 2028.
• Public Safety: Noblesville was named the 12th safest suburb in America. The city utilizes three mental health therapy K9s (Corbin, Luna, and Sadie) to assist the public and first responders.
• Budgetary Constraints: New state legislation will reduce the city’s revenue by $8 million in 2026, forcing the city to delay some capital projects and find creative savings (such as reducing grass mowing frequency).
• Schools: All four major school districts in Hamilton County are facing declining enrollment, which affects per-pupil state funding.
Question & Answer Section
Q1: Our streets are being patched frequently, but underlying issues remain. Is there a long-term plan for full repaving for Deer Path?
A: The City Engineer (Ali) explained that the city evaluates streets every two years using the "Pacer" system. Deer Path is one of the largest neighborhoods and is scheduled for resurfacing to begin in the next 2 to 3 years. Because of its size, the total project will take 4 to 5 years to complete.
Q2: Should residents report sidewalk issues (elevated edges/lips) or just assume they are part of the plan?
A: Residents are encouraged to report specific sidewalk issues through the city website. Reporting helps the city justify and prioritize which sections of the neighborhood need immediate attention.
Q3: Is there a plan to put speed bumps on major roads like Follow Drive, Cold Stream, or Wolf Run to help with speeding, especially during concert season?
A: No. The city believes speed bumps eventually become a nuisance to residents. Instead, they plan to increase police patrols during high-traffic times (like concert season) to manage speeding.
Q4: Rental homes are becoming an increasing problem. Can we limit rental properties like Fishers and Carmel have done?
A: The city is watching legal challenges in neighboring cities. Currently, state legislation has limited the ability of cities to restrict rentals. The city suggests that HOAs are the best vehicle for this, as they can build rental restrictions into their neighborhood covenants.
Q5: Are we ever going to get a workout and pool center like the one in Fishers?
A: It is on the "wish list," but such a facility costs roughly $80 million. With current budget cuts, it isn’t feasible right now, though the city is conducting a small study to identify potential future sites.
Q6: Can we have curbs painted yellow at neighborhood entrances/exits to indicate no-parking zones and prevent accidents?
A: The engineering department asked for an email with specific locations. They have a traffic committee that includes public safety and street departments to evaluate if such markings are necessary for safety and visibility.
Q7: Why are there tall trees and shrubs in the middle of roundabouts? Do they interfere with visibility?
A: This is intentional. Traffic engineers design roundabouts so drivers can only see to their left. If a driver can see all the way through, they gain a false sense of security. Blocking the view across the center forces drivers to slow down and focus on oncoming traffic from the left.
Q8: What is the plan for managing coyotes being displaced by new development?
A: There isn't a "relocation" plan. If coyotes are just passing through, the city lets them be. However, if they show aggression toward people or pets, residents should call the non-emergency police line so animal control or officers can intervene.
Q9: There have been concerns with vandalism and break-ins. Can you discuss this?
A: The police department reviews every case. They advise residents not to leave any valuables in cars, as thieves now break windows even if items are hidden. Residents are encouraged to save the non-emergency number (317-773-1300) and use the city's "Vacation Check" service when traveling.
Q10: What are the rules regarding e-bikes and motorized bicycles on sidewalks and paths?
A: This is a growing safety concern. The city is currently drafting an ordinance to define which types of motorized bikes are allowed on paths versus city streets. The priority will be the safety of pedestrians and traditional cyclists.
Q11: What are the plans for Greenfield Avenue (10th Street to SR 37)?
A: The city is studying the west side of Greenfield Avenue. The main focus is improving intersections to help residents get in and out of their neighborhoods more easily, rather than just adding more lanes.
