(This blog was updated on 23 June, 2025)
Last Friday, a public comment period wrapped up on the Governors Parkway bridge project in Hammond, Indiana, which stands to destroy 12.2 acres of a 32-acre dune woodland known as the Briar East Woods.
Save Briar East Woods, a local organization working to protect this ancient natural area from destruction, launched a Public Comment Campaign on May 14 to help concerned folks speak out against this project, engage in the decision-making process, and show a critical mass in opposition to the project and for the preservation of the urban dune woodland.
As of June 23, Save Briar East Woods supporters have amassed 323 signatures on the Sign-On Letter and dozens of thoughtful comments submitted to the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), the agency sponsoring the comment period.
While we can’t know for sure what results this public outcry will yield, we can be certain that the people of Northwest Indiana want to fight to save their precious green spaces. Save Briar East Woods volunteers have gone door-to-door every weekend promoting the Public Comment Campaign. Residents are often outraged to hear that the unprotected dune remnant is under threat, but more importantly, they are motivated to act.
The critical mass of participation in the campaign to Save Briar East Woods is not only inspiring to witness, but is indicative of the significance of urban green spaces to Hoosiers everywhere. A dense canopy of 150-year-old oak trees and remnant sand dunes are ecologically and geologically important, but also provide a serene, beautiful place for people to get outside, learn about nature, and enjoy their solitude.
Save Briar East Woods continues working toward the preservation of its namesake dunes in Hammond. This movement is one of many in the ongoing fight to protect Indiana’s natural areas and hold onto our precious urban green spaces. We are proud to be part of this collective voice, and we are delighted to hear that it keeps getting louder.
Learn more at savebriareastwoods.com.
Anne Sedlacek
Organizer with Save Briar East Woods