Indy DPW announces the creation of a new section of the White River Innovation District (WRID) website. Indy DPW created a new dedicated webpage to provide regular, ongoing updates related to the archaeological excavation of the Henry Street right-of-way within the limits of the former Greenlawn Cemetery.

The website provides insights into the discoveries of grave shafts and artifacts and will be updated weekly as part of the City’s commitment to transparency during the archaeological excavation process. As the City discussed at the June public meeting, the Greenlawn site has a complex history of past disturbances which will require time for the archaeologists and historians to properly document, analyze, and interpret each discovery.  The City is committed to exploring additional ways to share information related to this site’s history in the coming months and years including the release of a public report after reinternment.

Stantec received approval for its Archaeological Investigation Workplan for the Henry Street Bridge Project in September 2024. Trained bioarchaeologists and archaeologists are cautiously removing the soil above and around each grave shaft by careful mechanical and hand excavation. When human remains and/or artifacts are discovered, on-site documentation is completed. From there, the exhumed remains are transferred to the osteology lab at Indiana University-Indianapolis for analysis, while Stantec cleans and further documents the artifacts.

Throughout the excavation process tents will cover the work areas to protect the remains and artifacts being excavated and preserve the integrity and honor of those who were interred in the area. This process is expected to continue through spring 2025. Please note: Crews are expected to take a brief break over the holidays, so updates will not be provided during this time.

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