The board of SoIN Tourism in Jeffersonville has approved an investment of $1 million to support four southern Indiana projects that provide recreational, educational and entertainment opportunities.
The projects are the rehabilitation of an historic bank in Borden to serve as a trailhead, further development of a park expansion in Charlestown, the creation of a stage and farm market space in Clarksville, and the construction of an outdoor education pavilion in Clarksville.
“Those receiving awards demonstrated an alignment with our goal of building up Southern Indiana as a visitor destination,” SoIN Tourism Executive Director Jim Epperson said in a news release. “Each of these projects improves SoIN’s quality of life and will help turn visitors into future residents.”
SoIN Tourism, which is the Clark-Floyd Counties Convention Tourism Bureau, will invest $250,000 in each project. A bond, supported by funds from the Tourism Capital Development Fund, will provide the project funding.
The Borden trailhead
The funds will be used to renovate a historic bank building, which will serve as a trailhead along the Monon South Trail. The building will include public restrooms, air conditioning, a water bottle refill station, Wi-Fi access and a co-working area.
The Charlestown park expansion
The funds will be used to pay down a bond used to pay for Phase 1 of the Family Activities Park expansion so that the community can more quickly move to Phase 2. Phase 1 focused on developing The Depot, a teen-centered space that features a stage, coffee and smoothie bar, and sports and game options. Phase 2 will include the development of sand volleyball courts and mini soccer fields.
“Investments in our parks help us keep Charlestown on the map for visitors and give our residents opportunities to make memories with their friends and families,” Charlestown Mayor Treva Hodges said in the news release. “We are thrilled to be able to take the next step of improving our Family Activities Park.”
The Clarksville public space
The funds will be used to create a public space for cultural and social activities. The project will include the construction of a stage for live performances, a venue for festivals and events, and an open space for farmers markets and similar activities.
“We are incredibly grateful for the partnership with the Town of Clarksville and SoIN Tourism in bringing The Central Green to life,” said Kyle Hoehn, president of real estate developer Cornerstone Group, which is involved in the project. “This investment will help activate Clarksville’s new downtown, creating a dynamic space for community engagement and cultural experiences.”
The Clarksville pavilion
The funds will be used to help build an outdoor education pavilion at Falls of the Ohio State Park. The pavilion will provide the space and technology to host small meetings and conferences, promote the area to outdoor enthusiasts and encourage groups to use the space for art programs, concerts and other special events.
“The Falls of the Ohio is a truly one-of-a-kind treasure, rich in both natural wonder and historical significance—right here in our own community,” said Ann Wood, Falls of the Ohio Foundation board chair. “The education pavilion will offer a covered outdoor space where thousands of students and visitors each year can engage with the Falls’ remarkable landscape and historical stories.”