Events: Reuse - Saving the Dome from the Landfill

On October 14th, I attended the INASLA annual conference in downtown Indianapolis.  One particular presentation got me extremely excited about all the possibilities related to the idea of reuse.  The presentation was by Michael Bricker who is the co-founder and executive director of People for Urban Progress (PUP).  PUP is an Indianapolis-based non-profit and urban design do-tank that focuses on projects that enhance the urban quality of life in Indianapolis, particularly in the areas of transit, environment and design.

Michael and a few friends started the non-profit out of the big idea of reusing the fabric from the RCA dome when it was demolished in 2008.  The worked with the construction company and the City to save the 15-acres of fabric that was 2 layers thick.  They were able to save 3 acres or 90% of the fabric from the landfill.  This much fabric would cover a sidewalk that would run from downtown Indianapolis to Carmel. 

Their initial idea was to work with local artists to reuse the fabric and make it into shade structures for the parks around Indianapolis.  In order to do this, they needed funding.  So, they worked with the local artists to create really fun items that could be sold.  They make a series of products such as wallets, purses, clutches, etc. (I recommend everyone check this out- what a wonderful Christmas present!). 

From these projects they raised over $30,000 and have been able to begin work on their shade structures.  See an example of one below.  They have also worked with a variety of Universities, Businesses, and non-profits around Indianapolis to create custom structures that provide shade.  To date, they have used approximately 1% of the fabric.

I was actually able to chat with Michael at the end of the presentation, and I think we may start working with them to create some unique work in Columbus.  I was thinking it would be really cool to create bike rack covers with the material.  I have linked Michael up with the director of the newly created Indiana University College of Art and Design located in Columbus.  I’m excited about the possibilities!  I found the presentation truly inspiring!