Award-winning architect, developer, and community advocate calls for stronger public engagement in shaping Indiana's cities and neighborhoods

INDIANAPOLIS, IN / ACCESS Newswire / July 2, 2025 / As Indianapolis continues to evolve, one local leader is reminding residents that good design and smart development are about more than aesthetics-they're about people.

Cornelius "Lee" Alig, a sixth-generation Hoosier and long-time force in architecture, urban planning, and community building, is raising awareness around the critical role design plays in shaping public life. With a career spanning more than four decades, Alig has helped transform the physical and cultural landscape of Indianapolis through innovative real estate projects, nonprofit leadership, and grassroots service.

"Design isn't just what something looks like-it's how it works," said Alig. "We need to build communities that serve everyone, not just check a zoning box or fit a style."

A Voice for Better Cities

Alig's message comes at a time when U.S. cities are facing a wave of challenges tied to urban sprawl, housing, and infrastructure. According to the Brookings Institution, over 80% of Americans now live in urban areas, but many of these spaces lack adequate access to green space, safe transit, and inclusive public design.

Throughout his career-as co-founder of HDG (now Ratio) Architects, and later as CEO of Mansur Real Estate Services-Alig has pushed for development that reflects long-term thinking and civic responsibility. His work on commercial, hospitality, and mixed-use projects across the Midwest has earned national recognition, including the AIA Michigan Honor Award and the Urban Land Institute Award of Excellence.

Yet Alig's contributions extend well beyond real estate.

He is the creator and host of Design Minded Indiana, a radio show and podcast recorded at WQRT 99.1 FM LP. With over 50 episodes aired, the show spotlights local designers, planners, and creatives in candid conversations about how design influences everyday life.

"Public design affects everyone, whether they realise it or not-from the width of a sidewalk to the layout of a neighborhood," Alig explained. "The more we include people in these conversations, the better our cities will be."

Trees, Meals, and Hands-On Service

Alig also takes his message to the streets-literally. He volunteers with Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, helping plant more than 3,000 trees annually. He supports food relief organisation Second Helpings, where he's involved in volunteer efforts and the annual Tonic Ball fundraiser, which helps provide over 4,000 hot meals per day to food-insecure residents.

"If you want to build community, you've got to show up in it," said Alig. "Sometimes that means rolling up your sleeves and planting trees. Sometimes it means listening to someone who's struggling. That's part of design, too."

Civic Leadership Rooted in History

A licensed architect since 1981, Alig has served in key leadership roles including Vice Chairman of the Regional 2020 Plan under Mayor Bart Peterson and Chair of the Governor's Residence Commission under two state administrations. He's served on over 15 nonprofit boards and currently sits on the board of the Design Arts Collaborative, formerly affiliated with the Indianapolis Museum of Art.

His civic work has earned him Indiana's Sagamore of the Wabash-one of the highest civilian honors in the state.

A Call to Residents: Shape Your Space

Lee Alig's message to Indianapolis residents is simple but urgent: take ownership of your space.

"Start with your block," he said. "Talk to your neighbors. Show up at a planning meeting. Plant something. Advocate for what your community really needs."

About Cornelius "Lee" Alig

Cornelius "Lee" Alig is a licensed architect, developer, and civic leader based in Indianapolis. He is the co-founder of HDG (now Ratio) Architects and former CEO of Mansur Real Estate Services. His work includes award-winning development, nonprofit leadership, historic preservation, podcast hosting, and ongoing service to Indianapolis through urban design and volunteerism. He is the host of Design Minded Indiana on WQRT 99.1 FM.

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Email - corneliusalig@emaildn.com

SOURCE: Cornelius Alig