(Greensburg, IN) – Greensburg Mayor Joshua Marsh outlined successes and ongoing initiatives during his State of the City address Monday before the Greensburg Rotary Club.
He cited the work of the clerk-treasurer’s office, the utilities department, the building office, street department, police and fire, and the public projects office, among others, for a successful 2024.
Marsh noted the Community Crossings Matching Grant program provided much needed road repair dollars.
“In total, the City of Greensburg has received more than $9 million in grant funds for our road projects- a historic number for our administration. Our team has issued 33 Right-of-Way permits, completed the Downtown Franklin Streetscape Project, and entered contracts for the Washington Street Reconstruction and East Trail Project,” Marsh said. “The GIS department updated our infrastructure data, ensuring eligibility for future grants, and Pirate Park has been reseeded with new security cameras installed. These efforts highlight our dedication to building a safer, better community.”
The mayor also talked about the addition of moderate-income housing in the community.
“In 2024, we broke ground on Liberty Lakes, the newest residential subdivision in the city in more than a decade. This subdivision is located along Veterans Way, with lots available for homeowners and builders for purchase. The first house is being framed at this very moment!,” he exclaimed. “We are also working with Ironmen Development to build a downtown apartment complex, located on the site of the old Decatur County Jail. This complex will consist of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments at a market rate price. Both projects are great additions to our housing market.”
Notable events last year included welcoming thousands of visitors to town for the total solar eclipse, the establishment of a DORA, and the opening of the Municipal Complex – the site of the street department headquarters and new Larry D. Filler Fire Station One at Broadway and Barachel.
Looking into 2025 and beyond, Marsh says there’s much more to do.
“We need to embrace meaningful change—expanding access to housing, childcare, education, and economic opportunities—while preserving the charm and character that make Greensburg unique,” he said. “Our team and I are fully committed to these goals and will work tirelessly each day to make them a reality. Let us come together, welcome new ideas, and extend kindness to everyone we meet on our streets. Together, we can build a future we can all be proud of.”
The address was delivered at the Branch Coffeehouse and Gathering Place on the courthouse square downtown.
The full text of the address can be read below:
“It is an honor to stand before you as your mayor and deliver the State of the City address. Over the past year, Greensburg has continued to grow and thrive, and I am proud to share the many accomplishments we have achieved together. From modernizing our operations to significant infrastructure improvements, our city has demonstrated resilience, innovation, and community spirit.
“Let’s begin by highlighting the advancements made by our Clerk’s Office, led by Clerk Treasurer Amy Borns. For the first time in a decade, we have updated all city job descriptions to ensure clarity and relevance in our roles. We revised the employee handbook with the input of our internal handbook committee and implemented a lateral hire policy to attract the most qualified candidates. Additionally, a background check policy for new hires has been introduced, enhancing the integrity and professionalism of our workforce.
“Our Utilities Department has also made remarkable progress. At the water plant, we pumped over 848 million gallons of water, upgraded the groundwater plant with new filter media, PLC systems, and radio communications, and completed a five-year Wellhead Protection Plan, approved by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. The wastewater plant has seen upgrades to three lift stations, the addition of 4,000 feet of new sewer lines and 2,000 feet of stormwater infrastructure in our newest residential subdivision, Liberty Lakes, and a successful cleanout of South Broadway’s storm system. Preventative maintenance has remained on track, with 20 miles of sewer cleaned, and we invested in new equipment to reach hard-to-access areas. These advancements ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations while maintaining the reliability of essential services.
“Our Stormwater projects have taken off, and we’ve been able to achieve massive success in our second year of implementing a Stormwater Ordinance. The Rolling Meadows neighborhood saw the reconstruction of 68 inlets, which reduce sediment in our stormwater system. North Liberty Circle Drive was excavated, and new filter material and rock was placed to assist overflow into the retention pond. South Broadway by the Wastewater Plant was reconstructed and had 11 drainage structures replaced, eliminating the uneven driving surface and potential hazards. Finally, Tralan Drive had a secondary inlet installed to reduce flooding of the street, which will be completed in 2025. This is a project that was brought as a concern during my first campaign for mayor in 2019- we continue to review the issues and needs that were brought up then and work them into our plans of improvement for the city.
Upcoming Stormwater projects for 2025 include improved drainage at Jackson and Washington by adding secondary trunk lines to improve the flow of water to Main Street and adding capacity underground to get water off the road faster.
“An additional change to the Utilities Office comes from the passing of an updated Utility Rate, which will assist in the funding of capital projects for water, wastewater, and stormwater. To keep up with changing infrastructure and to make necessary improvements to improve service for our residents, we must continue to reevaluate our rates every few years.
Turning to our Public Projects Office, we’ve secured critical funding for transformative initiatives and critical projects. Federal funding was received for Park Road Phase 4, and we’ve applied for funding for the final phase. Through an INDOT Safety Grant, we secured over $1 million to improve traffic signals, crosswalks, and restripe Lincoln Street. Audio assistance for those who are visually impaired will be added to the crossings on Lincoln Street, making it safer for all members of the public. Preemption devices will also be added to our intersections, which will give our public safety partners with Greensburg Fire and Police the ability to change traffic signals to allow them to cross traffic safely.
“Additionally, the Community Crossings Matching Grant program provided funding for the Washington Street Project and 38 street improvement projects. In total, the City of Greensburg has received more than $9 million in grant funds for our road projects- a historic number for our administration. Our team has issued 33 Right-of-Way permits, completed the Downtown Franklin Streetscape Project, and entered contracts for the Washington Street Reconstruction and East Trail Project. The GIS department updated our infrastructure data, ensuring eligibility for future grants, and Pirate Park has been reseeded with new security cameras installed. These efforts highlight our dedication to building a safer, better community.
“One of the areas our Public Projects Office, the Greensburg Redevelopment Commission, and myself have focused on is the addition of moderate-income housing in our community. In 2024 we broke ground on Liberty Lakes, the newest residential subdivision in the city in more than a decade. This subdivision is located along Veterans Way, with lots available for homeowners and builders for purchase. The first house is being framed at this very moment! We are also working with Ironmen Development to build a downtown apartment complex, located on the site of the old Decatur County Jail. This complex will consist of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments at a market rate price. Both projects are great additions to our housing market.
“The Building Office worked to establish their online permit portal, making it even easier for residents to file and renew permits for houses, fences, decks, and other home renovation work. 160 permits were issued in 2024, and 120 violation notices were sent. That office continues to see an upward trend in the issuing of permits and in code enforcement notices, showing our continued commitment in improving the curb appeal and quality of housing. The Building Office also offers two programs for residential property owners that can benefit not only the curb appeal of their home but improve upon the safety of our neighborhoods as well. Homeowners can apply for the Curb Appeal and Shared Cost Sidewalk programs. Both programs offer partial reimbursement for projects– applications and more information can be found on our city website.
“The Street Department has been instrumental in maintaining our city’s cleanliness and infrastructure. In 2024, nearly 6.9 million pounds of household trash were collected, including 600,000 pounds during our record-setting heavy trash collection week. Resurfacing efforts covered 6.8 lane miles, completing three residential subdivisions, and repairing 48 storm inlets. Our crew performed the clean-up of 55 parcels in the city found in violation of unkept property ordinances. The department also secured funding for transportation projects, including Park Road Phase 4 and additional safety grants. Staff received training and certification to perform underground utility locates, showcasing their commitment to on-the-job training to expand their area of work.
“Public safety remains a cornerstone of our community. The Greensburg Police Department responded to over 13,000 calls for service, conducted more than 3,000 traffic stops, and made 529 arrests. Our team has worked to improve public transparency by upgrading and utilizing new body worn cameras, a massive undertaking for any department. Community engagement has been a priority, with involvement in events such as National Night Out, the Fall Festival, and school tours. GPD continues to grow with 22 full time officers and 4 reserves. The station has seen many physical additions and changes in 2024, including new HVAC, full building refresh, and the replacement of vehicles. Six new officers have joined GPD, and I am pleased to see the continued growth of our force.
“Meanwhile, the Greensburg Fire Department responded to 1,158 calls and logged nearly 4,500 training hours. Their new headquarters has been a vital resource, providing a state-of-the-art training facility and enhanced personal safety features, such as an air system to remove toxins after a fire run and keeping work and living spaces separate. This facility, which won the 2024 American Institute of Architects Northern Indiana Award for Best New Construction Project, reflects our commitment to public safety and innovation.
“The completion of the Municipal Complex has been a game-changer for city operations. The 29,000-square-foot Street Department facility provides clean, warm workspaces, locker rooms, temperature-controlled storage, and in-house mechanic bays. The new Fire Station 1, spanning 21,000 square feet, includes a training pond, confined space rescue props, and improved living spaces to separate firefighters from hazardous elements. This station also honors the legacy of Larry D. Filler, carrying forward his name.
“Economic development has been a driving force for our city. Our partnership with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation resulted in a massive data center deal—the largest economic project since Honda. This two phase, American owned data center will be $400 million each phase and will provide new career opportunities for residents. This will bring diversification of our workforce and tax base, which will in part attract new businesses to our enterprise park, bolstering Greensburg’s economic future.
“This year, we also celebrated significant community achievements. Thousands of visitors joined us for the total solar eclipse, where Greensburg was designated by Purdue University and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security as a top viewing location. This event showcased our city’s emergency planning and collaboration- this event featured live music, food trucks, and was our first Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) event. DORA has been utilized in all our downtown hosted events in 2024, and has been a resounding success, enhancing downtown events and fostering a sense of community while supporting local businesses.
Through the Regional Economic Acceleration Development Initiative, also known as READI, we became the first region in the state to spend 65% of READI 1.0 funds, unlocking access to READI 2.0 funding. Local projects focus on improving quality of life, place, and opportunity, cementing Greensburg as a leader in community and economic development.
Our youth continue to inspire us. The Mayor’s Youth Council completed the basketball and futsal courts at North Park, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and recognized sponsors for their support. Their commitment to planning events and improving our community is a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication.
“Finally, the Building Bridges Inclusion Park remains a shining example of what we can achieve together. This award-winning park has become a regional destination, drawing families, schools, and groups from Ohio and Kentucky. It serves as a symbol of inclusivity and innovation, earning the 2024 Accelerate Indiana Municipalities Placemaking Award—the first for Greensburg.
“In fact, Greensburg had another first in 2024- we were named ‘Neighborhood of the Year’ by the U.S. Small Business Administration, and we were the only city selected in Indiana for 2024. The SBA visited Greensburg in November, and did a walking tour with our community partners to showcase our locally unique businesses on the Downtown Square. In 2025, we will continue the theme of ‘firsts’ for our community by hosting large scale trainings and conferences. Main Street Greensburg, who was re-awarded their National Accreditation this year, will be hosting a Community Exchange. Main Street organizations from across the state will come and attend a training and learn about what our Main Street is doing to engage the community and our visitors. Greensburg will also be host to the Indiana Mayors Assistants Conference, which is the first time the IMA will be in Greensburg. This statewide organization is an affiliate of Accelerate Indiana Municipalities and will have staff from cities across the state visiting our community. In that same area, I am the Vice Chair of the Indiana Conference of Mayors and will host our annual conference in Greensburg in 2026. Mayors from all corners of Indiana will attend to receive continuing education but will also network and explore Greensburg’s amenities.
“Upon reflection of what we accomplished in 2024, I’d be remised if I didn’t add what 2025 has in store for us. We have asked the State of Indiana for more infrastructure funding, which includes the last phase of Park Road. This project has been in progress since 2020, and we will see the start of the bid process so construction can begin in 2028. Freeland Road will see street resurfacing and storm drainage structure improvements that will improve the driving surface, and the replacement of underground falling pipes at North Commerce Drive and Kessler Boulevard. The North Broadway water and sewer redesign will be completed, so we can address the failing infrastructure on that side of the city- this continues to be the site of water main breaks and leaks. INDOT will be working on the Evergreen T located at US 421 and I-74, which has been a long asked for project. INDOT will continue to work on the Main Street reconstruction project, which has an estimated start date of 2027.
“We will be working with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to connect the Eastside Trail to Main Street, which received Next Level Trails funding in late 2023. Just last week, we broke ground on the project, which will be a collaborative effort between the City, Decatur County Parks, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, and the Indiana Department of Transportation. This project is the continuation of a city-wide trail.
“In addition to new and improved pedestrian infrastructure, we will see the creation of new market rate apartment options on our Downtown Square. The apartments, as mentioned earlier, consist of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units with modern amenities and a prime location. This will be a great addition to our downtown skyline, and will bring a new demographic to our community, while expanding our housing market.
“Speaking of the Downtown Square, we will see the completion of the Washington Streetscape project in fall of 2025 in time for the Fall Festival. This project includes stormwater and drainage “improvements under the street, leveled pavement at the intersection of Broadway and Washington, updated streetscapes, and marked pedestrian crossings. The design and layout will match the rest of the square, making it one cohesive look.
“Each year, I renew my commitment to supporting our public safety teams in connecting with our community, enhancing our infrastructure, and improving quality of life through thoughtful investments. I also pledge to ensure the incredible work of our departments is shared and celebrated. As we step into 2025, I reaffirm this commitment because, together, we have built a strong foundation, and the state of our city is vibrant and resilient.
“We must maintain our momentum—continuing the hard work, progress, and pace that has brought us this far. The Greensburg City Council, Clerk Treasurer Borns and I, as your elected municipal officials, are deeply grateful for your trust and confidence over the past five years, and I look forward to an even brighter future for Greensburg in 2025.
“I promise to work harder than ever to create opportunities for every resident who calls Greensburg home. Together, we have achieved a great deal, but there is still much to do. We need to embrace meaningful change—expanding access to housing, childcare, education, and economic opportunities—while preserving the charm and character that make Greensburg unique.
“Our team and I are fully committed to these goals and will work tirelessly each day to make them a reality. Let us come together, welcome new ideas, and extend kindness to everyone we meet on our streets. Together, we can build a future we can all be proud of.
“I hope you will join me.”
