Gov. Joe Kernan shares a moment with DNR leaders overlooking the
Ohio River at Charlestown State Park. Pictured from left to right are
John Davis, Gov. Kernan, Matt Hopper, John Goss and Jerry Pagac.
Gov. Joe Kernan shares a moment with DNR leaders overlooking the
Ohio River at Charlestown State Park. Pictured from left to right are
John Davis, Gov. Kernan, Matt Hopper, John Goss and Jerry Pagac.
“With this new property, our park becomes the third largest in the state system,” Gov. Joe Kernan said as he opened a new chapter in the history of Charlestown State Park.
“I believe it will help the economic vitality of this area, stir visitors from not only around the state but the rest of the country and the world. It also compliments the business uses being planned up on the hill.”
At an event overlooking the Ohio River, Gov. Kernan accepted an additional 2,700 acres of land from the federal government for the state park. He signed the deed as Col. Robert Rowlette of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers looked on.
Kernan also announced that almost $3 million is available for improvements that would include trails, a boat ramp, parking and picnic areas along 4.5 miles of the Ohio River.
“This, like so many projects of its kind, took a lot of people and a vision that goes back 20 years,” Kernan said. “While Lee Hamilton first supported the proposal, Senators Bayh and Lugar have promoted it all along and Congressman Baron Hill has been a staunch advocate these years. I think it is also a testament not only to the state representatives, mayors, commissioners and council members that are here today, but those who have cooperated all these years to help make this happen.”
With this addition, the park, already 2,400 acres, will more than double in size to about 5,300 acres.
Gerry Pagac, DNR state parks and reservoirs director, noted the new property will open a section of the riverfront which for more than 50 years has been inaccessible to the public.
Kernan also announced that the state would start a project to develop a master plan for the entire park.
“Everything is on the table and we want local leadership and the citizenry to let us know what they want for this property,” Kernan said. “It is a terrific piece of property and we see great potential in its future.”
Before any property is deeded to the DNR, the Army is required to clean any hazardous pollution left from past manufacturing operations. (Quotes from Jeffersonville Evening News)
