Shirley James (died 2007) was an Evansville community activist and environmental advocate best known for her work to improve the city’s West Side and develop the Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage.

Originally from Montana and raised in Washington state, James moved to Evansville, Indiana, in 1963 and attended the University of Evansville. In 1976, she helped organize the West Side Improvement Association and served as its president for most of the next two decades. Her efforts focused on issues including illegal dumping, pollution, drainage, urban development and neighborhood beautification.

Pigeon Creek Greenway

James became one of the leading advocates for the Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage, serving as chair of its advisory committee from 1993 to 2007. She worked for years to build public support and secure funding for the trail system.

Her contributions are commemorated by the Shirley James Gateway Plaza, a Greenway trailhead and public art installation dedicated in her honor in 2009.

James received numerous awards for conservation and community service, including the Master Conservationist Award, Jefferson Award and Indiana Center for Philanthropy’s Unsung Hero Award. Her work on the Greenway and Evansville’s West Side remains an important part of her legacy.