Riverside Park closes for construction; reopening set for December 2026

Riverside Park in Batesville is now closed for construction as the city begins the improvement project voters approved in August 2023.

The ballot approval extended a current half-cent sales tax to allow for Riverside Park to be redeveloped, paving the way for more recreational opportunities, including nature and water play additions, an events center, and more.

An official groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for June, with details to be released at a later date. According to city officials, the renovated park is expected to reopen in December 2026.

Despite the closure, several nearby amenities will remain open throughout the construction period, including the Sara Low Memorial Dog Park, the Municipal Golf Course, and The River Waterfront Steak & Grill. City officials said minimal traffic disruptions are expected along Chaney Drive.

“We appreciate the community’s patience as we invest in building a better Batesville,” city officials said in a statement.

Residents are encouraged to explore other area parks and recreational facilities during the closure. Options include:

• Batesville Community Center & Aquatics Park, which features courts, a walking track, and pools. The outdoor aquatics park opens for the season on May 24.
• East Main Sports Complex, home to soccer fields, a playground, and a horse arena.
• Kennedy Park, offering boat access, scenic river views, and shaded playgrounds.
• Maxfield Park, which hosts live music, a farmers market, and a distinctive playscape.
• West Side Park, featuring a nature-themed play structure and an interactive splash pad set to open May 24.
• Virginia Moser Memorial Park, with accessible play equipment on soft surfacing.
• Terry Sims Diamond Sports Complex, with fields for baseball and softball.
• Polk Bayou Park, with a kayak launch for water recreation.

Image: White River Now