City of Westfield Newsletter March 2026

2026 NFL FLAG CHAMPIONSHIPS

COMING SOON TO WESTFIELD!

This summer, Westfield will take center stage in the world of youth sports as the NFL hosts the third annual NFL Flag Championships presented by Toyota from July 23–26, 2026, with championship games scheduled for Sunday, July 26. The international tournament will take place at Droplight Grand Park Sports Campus, one of the largest sports tourism destinations in the Midwest.

The NFL Flag Championships are the largest youth flag football tournament in the world, and the 2026 event is expected to be the biggest yet. More than 350 girls’ and boys’ teams from around the globe will compete, bringing thousands of athletes, families, and fans to Westfield and highlighting the sport’s rapid growth and global reach.

“We are honored to welcome the NFL Flag Championships to Westfield and to showcase Grand Park on an international stage,” said Westfield Mayor Scott Willis. “This event brings the world to our community and highlights why Westfield has become a premier destination for youth sports, hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.”

The move to Indiana builds on the NFL’s long-standing relationship with the region, home to the Indianapolis Colts and the annual NFL Scouting Combine. With world-class facilities, experienced event partners, and a passionate fan base, Westfield is a natural fit for an event of this scale — a testament to the city’s continued investment in youth sports, community experiences, and world-class events.

Visit nflflag.com/events/championships to learn more and get registered!

*July 24–26 are televised dates

LETTER FROM THE MAY R

Westfield Residents,

After a long and frigid winter, we’re finally emerging into spring. The snow and ice will soon thaw and give way to flowers of every shape and hue, green grass, and blue skies. Like many of you, I’m looking forward to spending time in our parks and on our trails, reconnecting with the neighbors at community events, and enjoying all that Westfield has to offer.

One of the events I’m looking forward to is the return of the Mayor’s Grand Gala. On May 1, hundreds of people will descend upon the newly opened Westwood Vowery and Estate to raise funds for local nonprofits that need our support to continue their important work. The evening will be filled with great food, entertainment, and community spirit. You won’t want to miss it! If you are interested in purchasing tickets or exploring sponsorship opportunities, please visit westfieldgala.com.

Spring also brings plenty of opportunities for the whole family to get involved thanks to exciting events such as Spring Swing (April 18), Green Day (April 25), the opening of the Westfield Farmers Market (May 7), the Westfield International Festival (May 16), and more! There’s always something happening in Westfield, and I hope to see you all out and about in the weeks ahead.

Thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility of being your Mayor. Let us work hand in hand to build a Westfield that we can all be proud of.

In service,

Mayor Scott Willis

WHERE IS MAYOR WILLIS?

COFFEE & CONVERSATION

March 12 | 7:30 a.m.

Biggby Coffee, 1529 S. Waterleaf Dr.

April 16 | 7:30 a.m.

Tous Les Jours, 170 Jersey St. Located inside The Union at Grand Junction

May 9 | 9 a.m.

Starbucks, 1589 S. Waterleaf Dr.

TOWN HALL

April 16 & July 16 | Both at 7 p.m. Westfield Washington Public Library 17400 Westfield Blvd

WESTFIELD CITY COUNCIL | HERE FOR YOU!

LETTER FROM PATRICK TAMM | COUNCIL PRESIDENT

Dear Residents,

This winter was challenging, with bitter cold, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions unlike those we’ve seen in years. My family and I are deeply grateful to the men and women who worked through those conditions to keep roads clear, respond to emergencies, and ensure our community remained safe throughout the season.

But as the chill gives way to warmer weather, it also marks the start of construction season. While there is never an ideal time to complete infrastructure projects, we must take full advantage of the spring and summer to upgrade our streets, intersections, and pathways to keep pace with our explosive growth and increasing number of visitors.

Thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation. Please be courteous to crews and contractors by slowing down in construction zones and giving them space to work. To stay informed on project updates, I encourage you to subscribe to the City’s e-newsletter. Together, we’ll get through construction season and emerge with safer roadways.

Sincerely,

Patrick Tamm | Council President

Jon Dartt

District 1 jdartt@westfield.in.gov

Victor McCarty District 2 vmccarty@westfield.in.gov

Joe Duepner District 3 jduepner@westfield.in.gov

Patrick Tamm

District 4 ptamm@westfield.in.gov

Noah Herron

District 5 nherron@westfield.in.gov

Chad Huff

At-Large chuff@westfield.in.gov

Kurt Wanninger

At-Large kwanninger@westfield.in.gov

During the City Council meeting on Monday, February 23, Mayor Willis proclaimed March as Disability Awareness Month in the City of Westfield. While recognized locally, Disability Awareness Month is part of a national movement established in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan through Proclamation 5613 to promote inclusion, understanding, and awareness of the disability community.

Established in 2022, the Westfield Mayor’s Council on Disabilities (WMCD) works to raise awareness and address barriers faced by people with disabilities in Westfield through education, advocacy, and community events. The council’s mission is to positively impact lives by promoting lifecycle planning, inclusion, and access, with a focus on accessibility, workforce development, safety, and community engagement.

WMCD is currently working with the Westfield City Council toward codification as the Westfield Advisory Council on Disabilities, allowing appointed members to continue serving the community in new and impactful ways. Those interested in joining the council or participating in upcoming events, including Disability Awareness Month activities, can learn more at westfieldin.gov/wmcd.

11 LOCAL PARKS

30+ RIBBON CUTTINGS #5 BEST PLACE TO LIVE WESTFIELD IN 2025 BY THE NUMBERS

34 SQUARE MILES

42 ROUNDABOUTS

212 ACRES OF PARK LAND

363 FULL-TIME STAFF

PAVING THE WAY FORWARD PARK STREET IMPROVEMENTS ON THE WAY

We’re getting ready to break ground on the Park Street Improvement Project — an investment that will make Park Street safer, more walkable, and more inviting for residents and visitors. Starting in May, construction will begin and continue throughout the year. The goal is to enhance Park Street while preserving the charm and “small-town feel” that makes our Restaurant Row such a favorite.

Once complete, you’ll notice several upgrades, including:

• Brick pavers and refreshed streetscape features

• More seating areas to gather and enjoy downtown

• New decorative lights for added character and ambiance

• Improved pedestrian access to help people move more comfortably and safely

We know construction can be inconvenient, and we’re committed to keeping downtown accessible during the project. Park Street will never be fully closed to cars. At least one lane will remain open at all times, and access to all restaurants will be maintained throughout construction so you can continue to shop, dine, and visit your favorite spots.

We’re excited about what these improvements will mean for Park Street and downtown Westfield — and this is just the beginning. A Phase 2 project is planned for the future, which will include a small plaza connecting the Midland Trace Trail to Park Street on the west end.

NEED A SHADY SPOT AT THE PARK? RESERVE A SHELTER!

Shelters are available to rent at the below sites for $55 for a four-hour block of time:

• Asa Bales Shelters 1 and 2

• Quaker Shelters 3 and 4

• Simon Moon Shelters 1 and 2 (available June 2026)

Visit westfieldin.gov/shelterrentals to reserve your spot!

ROOTED IN ACTION: WESTFIELD GETS A LITTLE GREENER

In 2025, Westfield Green Together made a powerful impact across the city, bringing neighbors together to grow and care for our shared spaces. During Green Day, 130 native trees were distributed to residents, helping expand the community’s tree canopy one yard at a time. Volunteers also planted more than 200 native plants at the Monon Trailhead at Greyhound Pass and added 130 native trees at Droplight Grand Park Sports Campus — strengthening the beauty and sustainability of some of Westfield’s most visited spaces. The momentum didn’t stop there. Throughout the year, 51 dedicated volunteers contributed an impressive 1,247 hours of service, including hands-on efforts to remove invasive species at Osborne Park, Asa Bales Park, and Raymond Worth Park. Together, these efforts are creating healthier ecosystems, enhancing public spaces, and ensuring Westfield continues to thrive.

A NEW WAY TO PLAY IN WESTFIELD: THE FIRST INDIANA PADEL FACILITY

Westfield is now home to Indiana’s first padel facility with the opening of NorthPoint Padel, a fully automated indoor sports venue located at 20099 N. East St., Suite 100. The facility introduces padel, one of the world’s fastest-growing racquet sports. It offers two premium indoor courts, a 24/7 digital booking experience through the Playtomic app, and a welcoming environment for beginners and experienced players.

Designed to be social, approachable, and easy to try, padel blends elements of tennis and squash in a fast-paced doubles format. In addition to private court reservations, NorthPoint Padel will offer clinics, open play, and instructional sessions that make it simple for newcomers to jump in while still challenging more competitive players. City leaders say the new facility reflects Westfield’s continued focus on expanding high-quality recreational amenities and supporting active lifestyles.

WESTFIELD ROAD CONSTRUCTION UPDATES PARDON OUR PROGRESS

MONON TUNNEL

Start Date: Spring 2026

Completion: December 2026

Detour: 161st Street open to traffic; Monon Trail detour via 156th Street, Oak Ridge Road, and 169th Street

191ST STREET WIDENING | PHASE 1

All project dates and timelines are estimated. Weather, utilities, and unforeseen circumstances may impact the construction schedule. While adjustments may occasionally be necessary, it is always our goal to complete projects as efficiently and safely as possible while minimizing disruption to residents, businesses, and visitors. We sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding as these important improvements move forward.

For the most up-to-date information, including detailed project descriptions, detour routes, and estimated costs, please scan the QR code or visit westfieldin.gov/construction. Residents can also follow the City of Westfield on Facebook for updates and construction alerts.

Utility Work: Spring 2026

Roundabout Construction: Fall 2026

Roadway & Pedestrian Bridge: Spring 2027

Overview: Widening 191st Street from Tomlinson Road to Grand Park Boulevard, including a new roundabout at Grand Park Boulevard and a pedestrian bridge carrying the Monon Trail over 191st Street

181ST STREET & GRAND PARK BLVD ROUNDABOUT

Start Date: April 4, 2026

Intersection Opens: June 4, 2026

Final Completion: September 2026

WESTFIELD BLVD | PHASE 2

Roundabout Construction: Fall 2026

Roadway Construction: Spring 2027

Overview: Connection from Lantern Commons to David Brown Drive including a roundabout at David Brown Drive

LOOKING TO THE HORIZON

UNDERSTANDING WHY WESTFIELD’S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN MATTERS

Communities do not grow by accident. The choices made today — about roads, neighborhoods, parks, and public investment — shape how a city functions for decades. That is why Westfield periodically updates its Comprehensive Plan: to make sure the community is planning ahead rather than reacting to change as it happens.

Westfield’s last full Comprehensive Plan was completed in 2007. At that time, many of the projects and amenities residents now consider central to the community had not yet been envisioned. For example, Droplight Grand Park Sports Campus — now a major destination for sports tourism and local recreation — was not yet contemplated. Over the past two decades, Westfield has experienced significant growth, new development patterns, evolving transportation needs, and expanded infrastructure demands. Updating the Comprehensive Plan ensures that future decisions reflect today’s realities while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. The new draft Comprehensive Plan, Advancing Westfield: Looking to the Horizon, provides a long-range framework to help guide how the city grows and invests over the next 20 years. It brings together planning for land use, transportation, utilities, economic development, and quality of life into a single coordinated strategy. Rather than focusing on specific projects, the plan establishes a shared vision, community values, and long-term priorities that decision-makers can use when evaluating future proposals and public investments.

Having a clear vision is important because it helps ensure consistency over time. Leadership, market conditions, and development opportunities may change, but a shared long-term direction helps keep decisions aligned with what the community wants to become. Without that framework, growth can occur in disconnected ways that make transportation planning, infrastructure investment, and service delivery more difficult and more costly over time.

This update was not rushed. The planning process began in 2024 and took place over approximately 18 months, including extensive research, analysis, and community engagement. More than 6,000 residents and stakeholders — representing roughly 10 percent of the population — participated through public meetings, surveys, focus groups, steering committee discussions, and online workshops. That input helped shape the plan’s vision, themes, goals, and recommendations.

It is also important to understand what the Comprehensive Plan does and does not do. The plan does not change zoning, approve development, or establish timelines for when projects will occur. Instead, it serves as a long-range guide that helps the City make thoughtful, coordinated decisions over time.

Following its upcoming introduction to City Council in early March, the plan will move through the public review process. Because the document is extensive, the City will be breaking down each section over the coming weeks on social media and in our weekly e-newsletter to help residents better understand how the plan works and why each part matters. Residents are encouraged to learn more, review the draft plan, and stay engaged as the process continues.

The choices we make today shape Westfield for decades to come. Review the draft Comprehensive Plan to see the long-range vision guiding growth, transportation, infrastructure, and quality of life. Scan the QR code or visit westfieldin.gov/2045 to explore the plan and learn more.

BASELINE ASSESSMENT SEP. 2024–FEB. 2025

BUILDING DEC. 2024–MARCH 2025

2025

PLAN APRIL–OCT. 2025

PLAN OCT.–NOV. 2025

ADOPTION NOV. 2025–FEB. 2026

DELIVERABLES FEBRUARY 2026 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

WPD GROUNDBREAKING: BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Westfield Police Department has officially broken ground on a new $35 million headquarters on Grand Park Boulevard. Designed to meet the needs of a growing community, the facility is expected to be completed in 2027. The new station’s location was strategically chosen to support quick response times to Droplight Grand Park Sports Campus, Westfield High School, and heavily trafficked commercial areas nearby, while also enhancing police visibility within the community.

Packing your bags? Request extra patrol checks while you’re away (as officer availability and time allows). Visit westfieldin.gov/vacationcheck to learn more!

WESTFIELD POLICE DEPARTMENT: STAFF UPDATES AND HIGHLIGHTS

Ofc. Dave Dugger and Ofc. Linhsey Trinh were appointed to Detective in January, marking an important step within the department. Lt. Lindsay Bevilaqua also began a new role on January 6, assuming leadership of the School Resource Officer program. She is currently stationed at Washington Woods Elementary as the program continues to grow and evolve. Ofc. Davin Nichols joined the program as the new high school SRO on February 9 and will attend K-9 training, where he will handle a single purpose bomb detection dog, K-9 Billy. Sgt. Baldridge stepped into the role of Traffic Unit supervisor on February 3, overseeing one Traffic Officer and one Community Service Officer.

In addition to leadership and assignment updates, the department continues to invest in training and staffing. Ofc. Nichols and Ofc. Luke Thifault attended Crash Reconstruction training, a six-week program that will expand the department’s Crash Team capabilities. The department also welcomed five new lateral hires in December, including Luke Thifault, Chris Paxton, Vanderious Trice, and Jason Heiney, who are expected to be released to solo patrol in March. Edward Poynter was also hired and is currently attending the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.

Each of these advancements represents the hard work and dedication of the officers who serve and protect the Westfield community every day.

WESTFIELD FIRE DEPARTMENT UPDATES

Engine 384 went into service in January. It, along with Ladder 384, will be stationed at the new Station 84 located on 191st Street which is scheduled to open this spring.

SPRING INTO SAFETY: TIPS FROM WESTFIELD FIRE

As warmer weather returns, take a few simple steps to keep your family safe:

• Test smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed

• Keep grills at least 10 feet from buildings and never leave them unattended

• Watch for fast-moving spring storms and have a plan for severe weather

• Drive carefully — more pedestrians, cyclists, and kids are out playing

Let’s enjoy the season safely. If you need us, we’re always here.

WESTFIELD HIGH SCHOOL EARNS AP® GOLD STATUS

Recognized nationally for academic excellence, access, and student achievement

1,146 STUDENTS TOOK AP EXAMS 63% OF THE CLASS OF 2025 PASSED AT LEAST ONE AP EXAM

Westfield High School has been named to the 2025 Advanced Placement® (AP®) School Honor Roll, earning Gold Status in recognition of its strong academic performance and continued commitment to expanding access to rigorous, college-level coursework. The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs deliver strong results while broadening student participation and promoting a college-going culture.

Through the College Board’s AP Program, students take college-level courses while still in high school, with the opportunity to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both. At WHS, participation and achievement continue to grow, reflecting the district’s focus on preparing students to be Life Ready — academically, personally, and professionally.

2,067 TOTAL AP EXAMS ADMINISTERED

32 AP COURSES OFFERED

87% EARNED A SCORE OF 3 OR HIGHER

34 DEDICATED AP TEACHERS

AP CREDIT IS MAKING A REAL IMPACT FOR FAMILIES

College readiness translating into real savings for Westfield Washington families

For the 2024–2025 school year, a conservative estimate shows WHS students earned enough AP credit to save families at least $2.1 million in college tuition.

This estimate is based on Indiana University Bloomington’s average cost of $392 per credit hour and an assumed average of three credit hours per AP course. Because some AP courses award 5, 6, or even 8 credit hours, total tuition savings for Westfield families could reach as high as $3.8 million.

COOL CREEK ELEMENTARY APPROVED FOR 2026–2027

A return to the building’s roots, with strong community input guiding the name

On February 10, the Westfield Washington Schools Board of School Trustees officially approved Cool Creek Elementary School as the name of the elementary school returning to the current Westfield Intermediate School building for the 2026–2027 school year. As part of district rebalancing, the building will transition back to an elementary school — returning to its roots, as it originally opened as an elementary school in 1962.

The naming process included a collaborative workshop with Westfield Elementary families, review of the building’s history and prior student naming work, consideration of district naming patterns, and multiple rounds of discussion and voting.

GET TO KNOW YOUR SCHOOLS: SHAMROCK ACADEMY

Go behind the scenes and learn how WWS prepares students to be Life Ready

The application for the next cohort of Shamrock Academy opens soon. The program is designed for Westfield residents and community members who want a deeper understanding of how Westfield Washington Schools operates and how we prepare students to be Life Ready.

Participants meet one morning per month during the school year for a behind-the-scenes look at district operations.

Participants explore:

• Budgeting and finance

• Teaching and learning

• Data and assessment

• Hiring and staffing

• Student supports and safety

• Technology integration

• Transportation

• And more!

Shamrock Academy provides meaningful opportunities for dialogue with district leadership and a deeper understanding of the strategies and people behind our district and student success.

Graduates are invited to continue sharing feedback and partnering with district leaders on future initiatives and community projects.

Ready to apply? Scan the QR code!

WOMEN WHO ROCK PANEL DISCUSSION

In celebration of Women's History Month, the Westfield Chamber invites business leaders, community members, and guests to attend our Women Who Rock Luncheon on Thursday, March 19 at The Club at Chatham Hills!

Come hear from our dynamic panel of movers & shakers in Westfield! We're honored to bring together an amazing group of women who come from all walks of life and varying levels of experience. There are so many incredible women in our city, and we are excited to lift up their voices. Last year’s panel was such a great discussion, and we can’t wait to see the impact of this year’s event!

This panel is for all audiences, so we hope to see you there for what should be an insightful and inspiring afternoon. Registration is available at westfieldchamberindy.com.

Westfield Young Professionals

Leadership Summit

Join the Westfield Young Professionals Council on March 25, 2026 from 9:30 a.m.–4 p.m. for a one-of-a-kind professional and personal development experience. This event is open to anyone who lives or works in Hamilton County and is looking to sharpen their skills and network. The all-inclusive cost includes leadership training and materials, food, and a ticket to the post-event happy hour. Registration is available through the Chamber website. Please share this event with your colleagues early in their professional journey or just eager to learn!

About the Chamber

Westfield is a rapidly expanding community, and we want to see every business succeed. Joining the Westfield Chamber helps you to gain key relationships, an awareness of new opportunities, and access to valuable resources. We would love to connect you to our network of 450 members and counting, so please reach out to learn how to get more involved!

WESTFIELD'S SPRING LINEUP

MARCH–JUNE EVENTS & PROGRAMS

NATURE WALKS

March 6, 13, 20, 27 | April 15, 29

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. Times Vary

WESTFIELD WINTER MARKET

Through March (Saturdays)

West Fork Whiskey Co. | 10 E. 191st St.

9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Presented by V3

SHAMROCK DROP

Saturday, March 14

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. 12–3 p.m.

SPRING SWING

Saturday, April 18

The Bridgewater Club | 3535 E. 161st St. Times Vary

GREEN DAY

Saturday, April 25

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

WESTFIELD FARMERS MARKET

May 7–September 3 (Thursdays)

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. 5–8 p.m.

BULK TRASH DAY

Saturday, May 9

Westfield City Services | 2728 E. 171st St. 8 a.m.–12 p.m.

WIFFLE BALL AT THE PLAZA

June 10, 24

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. 10–11 a.m.

WESTFIELD INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL

Saturday, May 16

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. 12–4 p.m.

Presented by Centier Bank

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

Wednesday, May 20

Fallen Hoosier Heroes Memorial 401 N. Union St. 6:30–7:30 p.m.

MOVIES IN THE PLAZA

May 27, June 10, 24

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. 7:30 p.m.

CREEK STOMPS

May 28–June 25 (Thursdays)

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. 10–11 a.m.

DONUT TRAIL

May 30–June 7

Westfield Trail System

Presented by The Farmers Bank

FISHING WITH FRIENDS

June 6

Simon Moon Park | 3044 E. 171st St. 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

KIDS SUMMER SERIES

June 2, 16, 23, 30

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. 9:30–11 a.m.

FITNESS IN THE PARK

May 4, 11, 18 | June 1, 8, 15

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. 6–7 p.m.

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

Wednesday, June 17

Droplight Grand Park Sports Campus

19000 Grand Park Blvd., Lot F

4:30–7:30 p.m.

OWL PELLET DISSECTIONS

June 3, 17

Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St. 10–11 a.m.