Neighborhood Vibrancy Grants: Transforming Neighborhoods & Fostering Community Spirit

Neighborhood Vibrancy Grants have become a beacon of support for Fishers neighborhoods looking to enhance their community spaces. Last year, the city awarded nearly $750K to 46 neighborhoods across the city. From revitalizing landscapes to addressing structural issues, this grant empowers residents to undertake projects that bring new life to their surroundings. We’re spotlighting three outstanding neighborhoods—The Anchorage, The Haven, and Allison Place—that have recently completed projects funded by the grant and made a lasting impact on their communities.

Emily Sappenfield, who manages landscaping for The Anchorage HOA, shared her neighborhood’s inspiring journey. Their project aimed to refresh several landscaping areas, add native plantings, and install much-needed lighting along the main street. The absence of sidewalks made this lighting especially crucial for safety during the dark winter months.

Emily highlighted the benefits the project brought: “Residents of The Anchorage have been excited to have more lighting, and it’s been fun to hear how much they enjoyed seeing red, white, and blue lights for the 4th of July.” This effort not only enhanced safety but also brought a sense of pride and festivity to the neighborhood.

For others considering applying for a grant, Emily’s advice is simple: “Throw your hat in the ring! The application process was straightforward, and the project would not have been possible within our existing budget without the grant.” 

David, a resident of The Haven and current Board treasurer and landscape committee chair, detailed their ambitious project to rejuvenate the front entry along Cumberland Road. With a focus on sustainability, they replaced invasive plant species with local flowering varieties that seamlessly integrated with the natural environment. The new landscaping, complete with natural boulders for structure, transformed the entryway into an inviting space that bursts with color.

“The positive feedback from our homeowners has been overwhelming,” David noted. “The common areas are vital to maintaining property values, and this project ensured our neighborhood remains visually appealing.” The upgraded irrigation system also contributes to sustaining the lush new plantings.

David’s advice for other neighborhoods: “The process was easier than I expected. If I could navigate the grant application without prior experience, anyone can! The key is gathering quotes and being clear about your vision.”

For Gavin Pretorius, President of the Board for the Allison Place Community Association, the neighborhood’s project was about preserving safety and aesthetics. Cracks in their entrance wall threatened not only the beauty but also the integrity of the structure. Repairing and sealing the wall prevented potential long-term damage.

“The grant was instrumental in helping cover a significant portion of the cost,” Gavin said. “Now, the wall is secure and the neighborhood feels more confident in its upkeep.” This project also inspired a community effort when members came together for a gardening party to clear the greenery around the wall, strengthening neighborly bonds in the process.

Gavin encourages other neighborhood leaders to involve residents in the project process and gather multiple contractor quotes for a thorough comparison. “It not only helps you choose the best contractor but also informs your grant request amount. Plus, engaging the community makes the project more collaborative and enjoyable.”

Whether it’s improving safety, beautifying entrances, or addressing necessary repairs, your neighborhood’s next big transformation could be just an application away. Applications for the 2025 Neighborhood Vibrancy Grant program are now open through January 13! Learn more about Neighborhood Vibrancy Grants and how your neighborhood can apply.