A message from the Brownsburg Town Council President

From neighborhood playgrounds to regional trails, our parks are where Brownsburg comes together. That’s why the Town of Brownsburg continues to prioritize investments in quality-of-life amenities that better serve our residents.

This year, we are investing more than $885,000 in park improvements. These projects span our entire park system and reflect a continued commitment to maintaining and enhancing the spaces our community uses every day.

Focusing on Connectivity

Multi-use paved trails continue to be top ranked in community surveys with specific requests to expand and enhance the current 20+ mile trail network, creating stronger connections between parks, neighborhoods, and destinations throughout the community.

Design is currently underway for walking and biking paths at Lincolnwood Park, which will expand access for residents on the west side of Town. As park development progresses, the Town plans to extend the White Lick Creek Greenway from Arbuckle Acres Park to Lincolnwood Park. Today, the trail connects Brownsburg’s business district to Arbuckle Acres Park.

Looking ahead, the long-term vision for the White Lick Creek Greenway is to create a continuous north-to-south corridor, linking residents north of I-74 to Arbuckle Acres Park, Lincolnwood Park, and Williams Park, with the potential to connect to Avon’s trail system. 

In addition, continued investment in trail-adjacent amenities enhances the overall user experience. This year, a new mural will be painted on the B&O trail, along the Northfield Drive tunnel. Public art helps create a more inviting and engaging environment for those who walk, run, and bike along Brownsburg’s growing trail system.

Maintaining Park Features

Maintaining and reinvesting in existing parks is just as important as building new ones. Across Brownsburg, several projects focus on preserving and improving the amenities residents rely on every day.

At Williams Park, work took place this spring to maintain Blast Off Playground, one of the oldest amenities in the park system. Volunteers helped paint and refresh the play space, keeping it safe and enjoyable for the thousands of families who visit each year. At the splash pad, renovations completed last year expanded the play area, improved drainage, and upgraded water lines. New features will be installed this year to ensure the popular summer attraction remains operational and interactive.

At Arbuckle Acres Park, upgrades include restroom improvements and rehabilitation of mini shelters. These updates enhance accessibility, extend the life of park infrastructure, and ensure the park remains a welcoming space for gatherings and events. In 2025 alone, the Parks Department saw 27,238 outdoor shelter visitors, generating $145,308 in revenue and underscoring the importance of maintaining these community assets.

At Stephens Park, pickleball courts will be resurfaced after five years of consistent use. This work improves playability and safety while extending the life of a heavily used amenity. The Town is also working closely with nearby residents to install sound mitigation barriers, supporting both park users and neighbors and maintaining a positive relationship between the park and surrounding homes.

In addition to these visible improvements, the Town is investing in White Lick Creek stabilization. This work helps prevent erosion, protect nearby parkland and trails, and preserve the natural environment that is central to Brownsburg’s park system. Construction is wrapping up this spring and includes new creek access for nature play.

Planning for the Future

Brownsburg currently manages 328.5 acres of parkland, approximately 9.2 acres per 1,000 residents. As the community continues to grow, Lincolnwood Park, located west of downtown, will play a key role in meeting future recreational needs.

Last year, the Park Authority launched the Lincolnwood Park Master Plan process to explore opportunities for long-term, quality-of-life development. To ensure the plan reflected the community’s needs and preferences, input was gathered through a series of public surveys, community meetings, and feedback sessions that invited residents to share ideas and priorities. 

While master plan vision will be implemented in phases over time, foundational work is already underway. Current improvements include drainage infrastructure and updated parking, critical first steps that prepare the site for future amenities while protecting natural features. Work is expected to be completed this fall.

Investing Responsibly

Identifying diverse funding sources to support park development and operations remains a top priority for the Town. Park improvements are funded through three primary sources: Park Impact Fees, the Food and Beverage Fund, and the General Fund.

Park Impact Fees are one-time charges assessed on new residential development to support the expansion of parks, trails, and recreational facilities needed to serve a growing population. These fees are typically paid during the building permit process, ensuring that growth contributes to the infrastructure it requires.

The Food and Beverage Tax is a 1% tax applied to prepared food and beverages purchased at local restaurants. Revenue generated from residents and visitors dining in Brownsburg is reinvested directly into the park system.

The Town also actively pursues grant opportunities. In January, a new play feature at the Outdoor Classroom was completed through funding from the Parks Foundation of Hendricks County. Similarly, fitness equipment at Virgil Park and non-verbal communication signs were funded by Parks Foundation of Hendricks County grants. 

Together, these funding sources allow Brownsburg to enhance public amenities while reducing the financial burden on existing taxpayers and ensuring a sustainable path for future investment. 

These 2026 projects reflect a broader vision for Brownsburg’s parks system, balancing ongoing maintenance with long-term planning.

Ben Lacey
Town Council President