Nexus Strategy & Implementation at the 2026 Indiana Walk & Bike Summit

The energy inside the Indiana Walk & Bike Summit this year was undeniable.

On May 5-6, leaders, advocates, planners, public officials, and community partners gathered at the Omni Severin Hotel in downtown Indianapolis for two days of bold conversations, mobile workshops, networking, and visionary thinking focused on creating safer, healthier, more walkable, and more bikeable communities across Indiana.

ID: David Wright in a button up and jeans and Jessica Renslow in a red dress with a black bike print and a black cardigan stand by the Walk and Bike Summit presentation.

Nexus Strategy & Implementation was proud to be part of the conversation.

Organized by Health by Design, the summit showcased how transportation, public health, equity, and community development intersect to improve quality of life for everyone. From transit-oriented development to Complete Streets and active living initiatives, every session reflected a shared commitment to building communities that are connected, accessible, and people-centered.

ID: Health by Design's Walk and Bike Summit announcement for the panel. Orange and tan checkerboard on the left side with a tan backdrop and an image of each panel member framed in a circle.

One of the highlights of the summit was our panel discussion:

“Now Arriving: Transit as the Route to Growing Bike and Walk Networks”

The session featured:

·         David Wright, GPTC

·         Jessica Renslow, Nexus Strategy & Implementation

·         Marjorie Hennessy, Health by Design

·         Taylor Firestine, Health by Design

We were thrilled to speak to a standing-room-only audience filled with engaged attendees who brought thoughtful questions, insightful feedback, and a genuine passion for active transit and equitable community development.

ID: David Wright (in a button up wearing summit badge) and Taylr Firestine (in a Walk and Bike t-shirt) discuss the active transit timeline in front of a full house.

The conversation focused on the exciting transformation underway in Gary and how transit investments can serve as a catalyst for healthier neighborhoods, stronger mobility networks, and economic revitalization.

ID: Cycle219 Bikeshare Station Announcement for Cal College. 4 white coaster bikes docked at a green bike rack.

During the panel, we highlighted several projects helping reshape the future of downtown Gary and Northwest Indiana, including:

Cycle219, Gary’s innovative DIY bikeshare initiative

·         New transit stations and expanded mobility connections

·         Dedicated bus lanes improving accessibility and efficiency

·         Public art installations activating community spaces

·         The Downtown Gary Art and History Fitness Trail

·         Efforts to connect residents to jobs, recreation, healthcare, and cultural destinations through active transportation

These are not abstract ideas. They are real projects creating real community impact.

The enthusiasm from attendees confirmed something we already know, communities across Indiana are eager for practical, community-driven transportation solutions that prioritize people, connectivity, and equity.

ID: Creative placemaking project from PPLWMTB. A sign post with various hand-drawn wayfinding with messages about the active transit community.

At Nexus Strategy & Implementation, we believe transportation is about far more than moving people from one place to another. It is about opportunity, access, health, economic growth, and community connection.

ID: Transit advocates from across Indiana discuss the future of bikes.

The 2026 Indiana Walk & Bike Summit reminded us how much momentum exists across Indiana to create communities where walking, biking, rolling, and public transit are safe, convenient, and welcoming for everyone.

ID: Tactical urbanism projects were a hot subject at the event. Popup DIY decorative bike lane designed by local artists with red and pink hearts showcasing a need for a permanent structure.

We are grateful to Health by Design for organizing such an inspiring event and thankful to everyone who joined our session, shared ideas, and continues working toward a more connected future.

The work happening in Gary is only the beginning, and we are excited for what comes next. You can view the full 2026 Indiana Bike & Walk Summit presentation

Bike and Walk Summit Presentation_v2.pdf

Download PDF • 5.85MB

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