In July 2008, we (Maryanne O’Malley and Michael Bricker) wondered what would become of the iconic RCA Dome roof material once the stadium was demolished. Upon discovering that the fabric was headed to an Indiana landfill, we began working with Sabre Demolition and Shiel Sexton Powers & Sons to negotiate an alternative solution. Our proposal, and subsequent partnerships with the Indianapolis Parks Department and Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, secured the preservation of 13 acres of material, nearly 90% of the total amount.
Through this initial project, we created PEOPLE FOR URBAN PROGRESS, envisioning an urban enhancement non-profit that focuses on project-based progress. Since 2008, we have continued to develop projects that will positively impact the urban environment of Indianapolis. As of October 2009, People for Urban Progress is an official 501c3 non-profit organization.
