EVANSVILLE, Ind. (August 1, 2024) – The Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP), in collaboration with the Southwest Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA), the Lt. Governor’s Office, and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, announced today the groundbreaking of Ohio Township Park, a significant project under the READI 1.0 initiative. The READI program accelerates investment across the state by matching private and local government funding for regionally transformational projects.
“This park exemplifies the positive impact of the READI program, enhancing our community and providing valuable recreational opportunities for residents,” said RDA Chair, Beth McFadin Higgins.
Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch joined Ohio Township Trustee Chad Bennett, along with elected officials, community members, and regional leaders to celebrate this milestone. The celebration included the groundbreaking of the park, the ‘hose-cutting’ for the new firehouse, and a reception inside the community center.
“Ohio Township Park is a testament to what can be achieved when state and local entities come together with a shared vision for community development,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “This park will be a cornerstone for recreation, community events and family activities, enriching the lives of residents for years to come.”
This $15 million project showcases the profound impact of READI 1.0 and how public-private partnerships can drive regional growth. Ohio Township Park will serve as a central hub for gatherings, recreational sports, community events, and more.
Key components of the park include a modern, zoned playground, a splash pad and slide, outdoor fitness stations, running and walking trails, yard games, sport courts, event lawns, a lake feature, pavilions, and more. Each element is designed to challenge children to discover and explore, fostering cognitive, social, physical, and creative skills.
“This park will be a vibrant community asset, offering diverse activities for all ages and promoting healthy lifestyles,” said Chad Bennett, Ohio Township Trustee. “It’s a place where families can create memories, and our community can come together.”
Located a mile east of I-69, the park is connected via a walking trail to the Warrick Wellness Trail, as well as shopping, restaurants, hotels, and workplaces.
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About the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership
The Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP) leads economic development efforts for the Evansville, Indiana region and elevates the overall quality of life through transformational projects, planning, advocacy, and business engagement. Additionally, E-REP supports the attraction, startup, and growth of regional businesses.
About the Southwest Indiana Regional Development Authority
The Southwest Indiana Regional Development Authority (RDA) was formed by a joint four-county ordinance in 2015 to apply for and then distribute the $42 million of Regional Cities Initiative funding. The achievement of Regional Cities Initiative was a catalyst for the $50 million Regional Economic + Acceleration Development Initiative (READI) award secured in December 2021. For READI, the RDA is the applicant, fiscal agent and has the overall responsibility for implementing the Regional Development Plan (RDP) The RDA is a quasi-unit of government and comprised of a five-member board representing Posey, Gibson, Warrick, and Vanderburgh Counties along with the City of Evansville. The Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP) was engaged to administer the regional work on behalf of the RDA.