CLARKSVILLE, Ind. (WDRB) — Land that once held junkyards and landfills is being transformed into a one-of-a-kind outdoor attraction for the region.
River Heritage Conservancy is developing Origin Park, a $260-$280 million, 430-acre project along the Ohio River in Clarksville, Indiana. The park will include hiking and biking trails, boating areas and an event center overlooking the river.
At the heart of the project is the Wildwater Adventure Center, which will feature kayaking, river surfing, rock climbing, ziplining and a man-made, Olympic-level whitewater rafting course. The park also plans to host concerts, festivals and a beer garden with river views.
“This is really in the heart of the Wildwater Center,” said Dennis Schnurbusch, CEO of River Heritage Conservancy. “We will be able to compete for things like the Olympic trials for kayakers. That means business for Louisville and local communities.”
Admission to the park will be free, with visitors paying only for certain attractions. Officials say the project is expected to generate at least $265 million in economic activity and create more than 3,800 jobs. They estimate the park could draw between 1 million and 1.5 million visitors annually, a number comparable to the entire Kentucky Derby Festival.
Funding comes from philanthropists, foundations and $37.5 million from the state of Indiana.
The past decade has largely been spent acquiring land, fundraising and cleaning up the property. Some sections of the park are already open, including 3/4 mile of hiking in Buttonbush Woods and biking trails. Developers expect the event and wedding venue to be completed by March.
Schnurbusch says the Wildwater Adventure Center could open as soon as 2029.
More Coverage:
Plans unveiled for zip line experience at Origin Park in southern Indiana
Olympic-level whitewater rapids attraction planned for Clarksville's Origin Park
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