How do you transform a city? That was the challenge facing city leaders in 1964. The City of Indianapolis was looking for ways to revitalize. The goal was to turn Indianapolis into a city where people would be happy to live, work and play. Mayor John Barton formed an advisory group of leaders from the public and private sectors – a group that would formulate a program of progress that makes use of the city’s full potential. In early 1965, the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee – or GIPC – completed its articles of incorporation and bylaws. Inaugural Chairman Frank McKinney Sr. introduced the organization and its charge at a kickoff dinner in June of that year.
GIPC has been a leading force in major progress and accomplishments for Indianapolis since its formation.
In 1999, John W. Walls, the first Executive Director of GIPC, completed “Onward and Upward–The Story of the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee.” His compilation gives a thorough overview of GIPC’s history from 1965-1999. Click here to download and read Walls’ story.
In 2009, Walls was asked to update the story of GIPC. Click here to read his update.
Read about GIPC’s more recent history here.
GIPC’s 50th Anniversary Celebration
On September 15, 2015, the Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee hosted a very special event to celebrate its 50th Anniversary. Joined by our esteemed former mayors, this was an evening to be remembered!
GIPC’s 50 years of progress was celebrated with this video.