Roche Diagnostics plans $550M expansion in Indianapolis creating 650 jobs

The Metropolitan and Economic Development Committee of the Indianapolis City Council convened on July 14, 2025, to discuss significant developments aimed at enhancing the city’s economic landscape. The meeting highlighted two major proposals that promise to impact local housing and job creation.

The first proposal focused on a new affordable housing project, which is nearing the closing phase after 18 months of planning. The project aims to provide approximately 200 housing units, with rents projected at $1,100 for one-bedroom apartments and $1,300 for two-bedroom units. These rates are designed to be accessible for households earning between $46,000 and $66,000 annually, representing 60% of the median income. The committee expressed strong community support for the initiative, with Councilor Gibson praising the developer's thoughtful engagement with local stakeholders. Construction is expected to commence soon, with a projected completion timeline of 18 months.

The second proposal involved a tax abatement request from Thunderbird CC Land Partners for a speculative development project at 6900 English Avenue. The project is set to invest $110 million in real property and create 200 jobs with a wage floor of $18 per hour. The development will unfold in four phases, each comprising buildings of approximately 250,000 square feet. The committee noted the importance of this project in addressing the low vacancy rates for industrial spaces in the area, which currently stand at just 2%. The proposal also includes a commitment to allocate 5% of the tax abatement savings—approximately $441,000—toward an inclusivity plan that supports local community initiatives, including a forest preservation fund and workforce development partnerships with the Walker Career Center.

Additionally, Roche Diagnostics presented a proposal for a major campus expansion, which includes a $550 million investment aimed at enhancing manufacturing capabilities for diabetes management products. This expansion is expected to create 650 new high-tech jobs with an average salary exceeding $80,000, while retaining over 2,600 existing jobs. The company’s commitment to inclusivity includes a $2 million investment in local workforce development initiatives.

The discussions during the meeting underscored the City Council's commitment to fostering economic growth through strategic investments in housing and job creation. As these projects move forward, they are anticipated to significantly contribute to the local economy and improve the quality of life for Indianapolis residents. The committee's approval of these proposals marks a critical step in realizing these ambitious plans, with further developments expected in the coming months.