“Restore the Mac 2017” initiative was subject of a rededication ceremony at Garfield Park
Friends of Garfield Park recognized a renovation in the oldest city park in Indianapolis at a short ceremony July 12.
The rededication for the MacAllister Center took place just prior to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Symphony in the Park concert, “A Night for the Stars.” The event—presented by Friends of Garfield Park and Indy Parks and Recreation—was free, but donations benefitted the STARS Youth program.
The improvements to the MacAllister Center—originally constructed in the mid-1920s and renovated 20 years ago—included improvements to the covered stage, backstage dressing areas, exterior masonry tuckpointing and new signage. In addition, the project included upgrades to the public restrooms, which are now available to all park visitors.
Originally constructed in the mid-1920s and last renovated 20 years ago, the MacAllister Center called for an upgrade, from water infiltration and deteriorating finishes to exterior bricks in need of repair. In addition to improving the conditions of the amphitheater and the park’s public restrooms, the project introduced a state-of-the-art lighting system.
“These improved accommodations are an investment in the community that takes th
e MacAllister Center to another level as a performing arts center,” said Mark Bowell, executive director of Friends of Garfield Park. “The result is a facility that will attract both stage talent and audience members to the amphitheater, continuing P.E. MacAllister’s great legacy of developing Indianapolis and advancing its growth of arts and culture.”
“Elevating our neighborhoods is one of the City’s top priorities, which is why the restoration of MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts is great news for the residents of Garfield Park and beyond,” said Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett. “The MacAllister Center has been an exemplary community asset for nearly a century, and generations more will be able to enjoy it thanks to the vision and generosity of so many.”
Primary financial support for the renovation was provided by P.E. MacAllister; the Efroymson Family Fund; Robert Bowen; Fred Klipsch; Michael Browning, Browning Investments; Robert Grand and D. Mark Bowell.
The project cost for the renovation totaled approximately $500,000, with 50 percent of it provided through in-kind services by multiple community partners. The Hagerman Group—represented by Bruce Molter, president, Hagerman, Inc.; Casey Flood, project engineer; and Melvin Blevins, superintendent—led the construction of the renovation. Additional companies providing in-kind construction services included Miller-Eads Electrical Contractors, Don Humphrey, Don Williams P
ainting, DECO Coatings, Eagle Mechanical and One Source Rentals. Indy Parks also contributed $100,000 to the project.
“The MacAllister Center renovation was a fulfilling way for The Hagerman Group to give back by upgrading the facilities that provide entertainment and enjoyment to so many in the Indianapolis community,” said Molter.
About Indy Parks and Recreation
Indy Parks connects communities by providing places and experiences that inspire healthy living, social engagement, and a love of nature. We offer 210 Parks, 11,254 acres, 125 playgrounds, 155 sports fields,135 miles of trails, 23 recreation and nature centers, 18 aquatic facilities, 13 golf courses, and four dog parks.
About Friends of Garfield Park
Friends of Garfield Park is a 501(c)(3), incorporated in 1998 with a mission to ensure the preservation and continuation of the public benefits of Garfield Park through enhanced funding, the application of effective advocacy, and expanded stewardship. For more information, visit https://garfieldparkindy.org.
About the Hagerman Group
The Hagerman Group, a 109-year-old family-owned construction company based in Fort Wayne, prides itself on reputation, integrity and its emphasis on people – our clients, users of the spaces we construct and our employees. In the end, our focus is on creating spaces where people work, learn, play and conduct life’s everyday activities. For more information, visit www.thehagermangroup.com/home/.
