When you think about cities like San Antonio, Chicago, and Portland – or even Paris, if we’re going international – it’s nearly impossible to separate their identities from the rivers on which they are located. Rivers have provided these places with context, guiding development and commerce, and contribute to their appeal as destinations and overall senses of place.
So, given that the White River flows through the heart of Indiana, why hasn’t it held the same sort of power here? For too long, the White River has remained rather irrelevant to life in Marion and Hamilton County. It has been – at best – an afterthought, and – at worse – a dumping ground, leading to its infamous reputation as something to avoid rather than enjoy.
Thankfully, for the past few decades groups like the White River Alliance, Friends of the White River, and Reconnecting to Our Waterways have sought to change all that. Thanks to their hard work, the White River Vision Plan looks toward the future of our river, charting a course that includes better access for both visitors and residents; an increase in the environmental value and ecological quality of the river corridor; improved connections to attractions, arts and entertainment venues, hiking and biking trails, and neighborhoods; and enhanced experiences that contribute to our shared cultural heritage and history.
The White River’s future has been determined by all of you – the central Indiana community. Over the last six months, we have received loads of feedback regarding what you would like to see happen along the river, as well as what you don’t want to see happen. There’s a clear passion for engaging with and stewarding the river presently within the region, and many of you see the plan as an opportunity to continue to improve the quality of life within Marion and Hamilton County. As we wrap up the “Envision” phase of the plan and start to move forward into the “Action” phase, we invite you to continue with us on our journey to determine how to turn this plan into a reality.
We welcome you to attend one of our upcoming public meetings this week, or provide feedback on MyWhiteRiver.com.
- January 29th, 6-8pm at Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Road, Fishers, IN 46038
- January 30th, 12-1:30pm at MIBOR, 1912 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202
- January 30th, 6-8pm at Sun King Brewery, 135 N. College Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46202
- January 31st, 6-8pm at Riverside High School, 3010 N. White River Parkway, Indianapolis, IN 46208
The White River Vision Plan is a joint effort between the City of Indianapolis and Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. in partnership with Visit Indy’s philanthropic arm, Tourism Tomorrow, Inc. to develop a comprehensive and coordinated regional, community-driven plan to enhance 58 miles of the White River in Marion and Hamilton County. Visit MyWhiteRiver.com for more information about the plan.
