History of IHA
IHA Today
Today, the Indianapolis Housing Agency stands at a critical crossroads; one defined not by challenges, but by courage, community, and commitment to change. Once marred by complex issues and fractured trust, IHA is undergoing a transformational rebirth under the leadership of CEO Yvonda A. Bean believe deeply in the power of housing as a foundation for dignity, stability, and opportunity. The 12-month action plan introduced by CEO Bean in May 2025 a "New Day & Better IHA" initiative isn't just a plan, it's a promise to residents, staff, partners, and the city that IHA is rebuilding with purpose, transparency, and heart.
What defines IHA today is not just the bricks and mortar of its properties but the humanity behind every action. From upgrading essential technology and improving customer service to fostering resident engagement and restoring partnerships, IHA is listening, learning, and leading. It is a housing agency that no longer runs from the fire but walks boldly through it with residents at its side. This is more than a turnaround; it's a revival of hope in public service, a place where people matter, and where progress is measured by trust rebuilt and lives uplifted.
History of IHA
Indianapolis Housing Agency (IHA) begins in the mid‑1930s, when the city partnered with the federal government to launch Lockefield Gardens under the Federal Housing Act of 1937. Conceived as a "model" low‑rent housing complex, Lockefield Gardens introduced modern amenities steam heat, running water, electric lighting, and community spaces to hundreds of families at a monthly rent scaled to income. Its success set a precedent for locally‑supported, federally‑assisted housing.
Building on that foundation, the City of Indianapolis formally established the Indianapolis Housing Authority in 1949. After an initial period of planning and property acquisition, IHA was reactivated in March 1964 under Mayor John J. Barton's leadership. That same year, on December 31, IHA assumed management of the Lockefield Gardens site and began laying the groundwork for a broader public housing program. This revitalization energized the agency and set the stage for rapid expansion
Between 1964 and 1974, IHA partnered with private developers on "turn‑key" projects, bringing 14 new communities and over 2,000 apartment units. In 1986, public housing operations were integrated into the City's Department of Metropolitan Development, ensuring dedicated resources.
Today, the Indianapolis Housing Agency oversees over 2000 units citywide, continuing its mission of safe, affordable housing through ongoing upgrades and strong community partnerships.
Fun Fact February 1993!
In 1993, former boxing champion Muhammad Ali and then-Indianapolis Mayor Stephen Goldsmith launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at tackling two critical challenges: public housing and unemployment. Through a new federal program called Step-Up, the Muhammad Ali Educational and Humanitarian Foundation partnered with the City to provide residents of Indianapolis public housing with hands-on training in construction trades, while simultaneously renovating their own communities.
"Under the Step-Up program, underemployed and unemployed residents of our public housing communities will have the opportunity for hands-on experience, decent wages, and exposure to a number of different apprentice trades," Goldsmith explained.
Indianapolis became the second city in the nation, following Chicago, to implement the Step-Up program, demonstrating a bold and innovative approach to workforce development and community revitalization.
