NexusPark launches website, unveils logo

Mike Wolanin | The Republic Workers remove part of the Fair Oak Mall sign on the building facing 25th Street in Columbus, Ind., Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022.

Mike Wolanin | The Republic Workers remove part of the Fair Oak Mall sign on the building facing 25th Street in Columbus, Ind., Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022.

Partners on NexusPark have launched a website for the project and unveiled a new logo.

The city of Columbus and Columbus Regional Health announced the new website and logo on Thursday. NexusPark is a joint venture between the two entities to transform the former FairOaks Mall into a health, wellness and recreation center. The project’s new website can be accessed at nexuspark.org.

The site includes information about the development, such as hours of operation, facility updates, answers to frequently asked questions, an open-ended survey on preferred restaurant and retail options, progress reports, and a form for contacting officials.

It also shows off the new NexusPark logo — an “N” made up of three geometric shapes in orange, yellow and turquoise. According to the website, representatives from the city and CRH worked with branding consultant Cronin to create the logo and branding, with input provided by partner and community stakeholders during the process.

“The result is a brand identity that is relevant and simple, yet memorable, versatile, and timeless,” said officials. “This is a brand that is full of energy. Over time, you’ll see the NexusPark brand come to life in different ways that will offer insight and surprises in big ways and small.”

The site includes examples of NexusPark branding applied to athletic activities such as basketball, with a combination of colors and geometric shapes representing the sport over a navy blue circle.

“When we think of NexusPark and its future, it’s easy to see it isn’t just a building,” said officials. “NexusPark will be a go-to community destination for the convergence of healthcare, recreation and wellness, taking a building in the center of the City of Columbus that has served its original purpose and transforming it into something truly special.”

Columbus Regional Health and the city of Columbus partnered in 2018 to purchase the mall facility and property at a 25% to 75% split, with the city retaining majority ownership for parks and recreation and sports tourism development. The Heritage Fund — The Community Foundation provided the difference between the selling price and the appraised value.

The NexusPark campus is expected to include, among other things, an 150,000-square-foot indoor sports fieldhouse, Columbus Parks administrative and recreational spaces, restaurant and retail areas, and CRH facilities. The NexusPark site also states that “outdoor community park and gathering spaces” are planned, and Dunham’s is expected to remain on-site under its current lease.

Per the new website, parks administrative spaces are expected open in fall of 2023, with the fieldhouse being completed in late 2023. The first CRH practice is expected to open this fall.