Spades Park Pogues Run Greenway Glow Stone Trail

Pogues Run Greenway features Indiana’s first glow-in-the-dark asphalt path. This luminous innovation pays homage to the former road it replaces, which once incorporated colorful glass from a nearby factory, and the park’s beloved “Feast of Lanterns” festival, where glowing lanterns light up the community. Beyond its cultural significance, the glowing trail enhances safety for users navigating unlit sections of Spades Park.

CHA collaborated closely with the City of Indianapolis and local grassroots organizations to deliver a design that celebrates heritage and promotes safe, active recreation. Stretching 1,300 feet long and 10 feet wide, the greenway uses around 700 pounds of AGT™ OPTIMUM Blend glow aggregate in Aqua-Blue and Sky-Blue colors. To install the glow-in-the-dark stones, they were scattered across the surface of the freshly placed hot-mix asphalt (HMA) and then immediately rolled into the asphalt to be flush with the trail surface.

The trail route was adjusted to provide ample separation from a grove of memorial trees established by the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union in the 1930s. Additional project elements included the restoration of a historic bridge, the design of a new pedestrian bridge, enhanced street crossings, and updated trail signage.

This innovative trail provides a unique and engaging experience for the community. By integrating glow-in-the-dark technology, the project enhances safety and aesthetics while paying homage to the area's rich history.