If you look at some of the major economic development projects over the past few months, one would get the impression Fishers is making a move to become a destination city.  If so, what does that mean to the look and feel of our community?

The most recent announcement is Topgolf’s intention to construct a venue near 116th Street and Cumberland Road.  I am not a golfer, but those who are assure me this is a very important facility that will draw people from miles around.

In November, the city had a joint news conference with IKEA to announce that the European furniture retailer will be building next to USA Funds and First Internet Bank, near Exit 5 at 116th Street and I-69.  Again, I have never had an IKEA shopping experience , but if the outlets closest to Indy, in Chicago and Cincinnati, are any indication, IKEA will be drawing customers near and far.

Sun King Brewery still has plans to put a major brewing complex north of 96th Street near I-69 in Fishers that the company says will be a “destination” once completed.  The unusual state laws governing distribution of craft beer products has delayed that project, but Sun King has opened a tasting room on 96th Street in Fishers to show its long-term commitment to the local area.

One possible Fishers destination is in limbo for now.  The “Sports Pavilion” planned for the Saxony area of Fishers was announced in April of 2015.  However, the developer has run into problems financing the project.  We will see if that major indoor sports facility show any forward movement in 2016.

Mayor Scott Fadness has described his vision of Fishers as a place that is smart, vibrant and entrepreneurial.  There is no question the mayor is leading the charge to continue bringing destination centers to the city.

There has been push-back from some in Fishers.  Many residents that have lived here for a long time bought their homes because of the school system, their neighbors and the ease of life here.  The continued development is increasing traffic and bringing more people to the area.  Many in Fishers are in favor of the growth strategy.  However, if you attend some public hearings, you will listen to residents who feel Fishers is changing in ways they never imagined when moving here.

I do not see any letup in the steady stream of economic development announcements for Fishers.  City officials tell me in the coming weeks to look for announcements of more employment opportunities.  The “destination” centers do come with some employment, but not a large number of jobs.

Many anticipate the 106th Street interchange on I-69, which will begin construction this year, could draw some office building tenants, and a number of professional jobs with them.  The area around Metropolitan Airport is now the site of possible development, based on a recent agreement between the city and the Indianapolis Airport Authority.  We will see.

In the meantime, there is no question Fishers will have several “destination” developments opening in the next two years.  That will bring more and more people to Fishers.  Is that a good or a bad thing?  It depends on your point of view.

But one thing is certain.  Fishers will continue to grow, in population and commercial activity.  I see no indication it will slow down anytime soon.