On May 2, Indianapolis Department of Public Works (Indy DPW) archaeology consultant Stantec notified Indy DPW its team has now identified a total of 674 grave shafts within the Henry Street right-of-way. The excavated portion of land is in the original section of the former Greenlawn Cemetery called the Old Burying Ground. 

Stantec began its archaeological investigation within the Henry Street right-of-way on the east side of the White River in November 2024. Trained archaeologists started working along the riverbank first to expedite construction of the Henry Street bridge and have continued to excavate east along the right of way to Kentucky Avenue.   

Based on the information available prior to excavation, the City estimated that 650 grave shafts could be found during the excavation of the Henry Street right-of-way. The number of grave shafts identified does not equate to a minimum number of individuals (MNI), because determining the MNI requires additional research and lab analysis of recovered remains. 

“Our approach and commitment to the respectful excavation and reinterment of individuals remains unchanged,” Stantec lead archaeologist Ryan Peterson said. “While more grave shafts have been identified than initially estimated for the right-of-way, this does not necessarily mean we will unearth a similar number of grave shafts in the areas still awaiting excavation.”  

Indy DPW is planning a July public meeting to provide an update on the construction progress of the White River Innovation District and to share preliminary insights into the archaeology work that is underway. 

To learn more about Indy DPW construction projects, visit indy.gov/DPWprojects.