You've heard of Mass. Ave, Broad Ripple and Fountain Square, but what about International Market Place? That's the new name designated for what's now known as Lafayette Square, the area near 38th and Lafayette Road, where Lafayette Square Mall is.
While the area has struggled in recent years with crime and high vacancy rates, neighborhood organizers say things are turning around.
"Things change and this neighborhood is changing. What used to be the focus on retail. It's not that way anymore," said Judy Donner, Lafayette Square Area Coalition.
In fact, the area northwest of downtown has developed an international flavor with more than 150 ethnic restaurants, not to mention all the ethic grocery stores. Donner says those changes are driving the push to rename Lafayette Square, International Market Place.
"There's a lot in a name because the international marketplace is what the area has become. It truly has become a melting pot of Indianapolis," said Donner.
Vikki Foster, a real estate agent who lives on the west side, agreed. "It's time for a change and it needs a change. The name needs a change and with a new name comes new ideas and inspirations," she said.
Foster was eating an Ethiopian restaurant with her mother and brother Ryan Graham, visiting from New York City.
Graham said he read about Abyssinia in an online New York Times article.
"I couldn't believe the New York Times was profiling Indianapolis," he said. The article said, "International food comes to Indianapolis. While it was previously known as Naptown it's not anymore."
Mike Nguyn, who's relocated his Vietnamese restaurant Saigon to a larger space on 38th Street, said re-branding the area "is very important. If we turn it into an international area, I think everyone will want to come here and check it out."
Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard likens the transformation to that of Fall Creek Place, a residential area just north of downtown.
"When I was a youngster it was Dodge City," said Ballard.
But since then Fall Creek Place has become a desirable place to live. The mayor also sees International Market Place living up to its new name.
"It has the potential to be great...and really reform that neighborhood," the mayor said.
Donner said the name change won't happen overnight. They plan to incorporate into new gateway treatments, signs and banners when the opportunities present themselves.
"We don't know how long that process will take, but it doesn't matter what we call it as long as people come here and experience what we have to offer, that's the important thing."
