Boxcar Development LLC, an investment group led by Herb Simon and the Simon family, formally broke ground alongside Marriott International and Sage Hospitality on the redevelopment of the former CSX Building in downtown Indianapolis. The project includes the city’s first Ritz-Carlton hotel. The Ritz-Carlton Indianapolis is scheduled to open in early 2028.
While work on the site has already begun, city and state officials joined the executives from Boxcar Development, Marriott International, Sage Hospitality and Live Nation to formally tip the project this week with a groundbreaking ceremony at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
"These investments reflect our family's long-standing commitment to Indianapolis and our pride in being part of its growth and future," Simon, founder of Boxcar Development and the owner and chairman of Pacers Sports & Entertainment, said in a statement. “These projects build on the momentum we’re seeing downtown, and elevate our hospitality and tourism industries to a new level.”
The new 15-floor Ritz-Carlton Indianapolis is planned to have 176 rooms, including 30 executive suites, two deluxe/hospitality suites, and a Ritz-Carlton suite. Additional amenities include 11,500-square-feet of ballroom and meeting spaces, a fitness center and spa, an outdoor terrace, an upscale restaurant, a lobby bar and restaurant space and a private lounge for hotel guests. A third-floor pedestrian bridge will connect the hotel to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, and the project also includes a two-level underground parking garage.
The Ritz-Carlton Indianapolis will be operated by Sage Hospitality Group.
“This groundbreaking represents more than a new hotel; it demonstrates what can be achieved when organizations unite around a shared vision,” Marriott International President and CEO Anthony Capuano said. “Introducing The Ritz-Carlton to this development brings a globally recognized standard of luxury hospitality to a project that we are confident will energize downtown and draw visitors to this vibrant destination. We are proud to work alongside Boxcar Development and Sage Hospitality and look forward to welcoming guests to experience The Ritz Carlton’s legendary service, best-in-class entertainment, and the spirit of Indianapolis.”