Long-awaited HI-FI expansion breaks ground next month
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
A rendering of the exterior of the expanded HI-FI in downtown Indianapolis. Photo: Courtesy of HI-FI & MOKB Presents
HI-FI's long-anticipated expansion is finally moving forward after organizers say a state grant provided much-needed momentum to a project they feared might fizzle out.
Why it matters: The development aims to give Fountain Square a three-venue entertainment destination that can host everything from larger touring acts and multi-day festivals to intimate community events and up-and-comers.
Driving the news: HI-FI's remix of the historic Murphy Arts Center starts next month with the help of a $1 million READI 2.0 Arts & Culture Grant from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.
- The expansion, estimated at a total cost of $5 million, is one of 49 projects sharing $65 million allocated to the state's creative economy.
Stunning stat: HI-FI says the expanded campus will draw more than 150,000 visitors a year.
What they're saying: "There were more than a few moments when it felt like this expansion might never happen, so receiving READI support is incredibly meaningful," HI-FI co-founder and CEO Josh Baker said in a statement. "It wasn't the finish line, but it became the catalyst that gave us the confidence and momentum to take the next step."
- "Every decision, every investment and every risk has been made by a local team that has chosen to invest in Indianapolis and believe in the power of live music to bring people together."
Flashback: Owners first shared their vision in 2024 for a new 1,200-capacity music venue in the former site of Granada Theater to continue the Murphy Arts Center's long legacy as a place for entertainment and gathering in the Circle City.
- That plan called for the new venue to open in early 2026, providing a permanent home for the outdoor HI-FI Annex in the process.
Yes, but: Project delays led to an unexpected encore season at the Annex, and questions about the status of the expansion.
Zoom in: The first floor of the Murphy Arts Center will become three linked venues connected by a new interior corridor.
- The HI-FI will serve as the flagship location and grow from a capacity of 400 to roughly 550.
- LO-FI Lounge will relocate to a new 200-capacity room for emerging artists and comedy.
- A new 1,100-capacity performance hall will provide space for the venue's biggest shows and touring acts.
What's next: Cambri Builders — the firm behind Helium Comedy Club — begins construction in August.
- Phase 1 will focus on expanding the flagship HI-FI venue.
- Phase 2 in September will include work on the new performance hall and LO-FI.
- Opening night is set for August 2027.