New era for Riverside Park; groundbreaking ceremony set for June 26

Above: A computer rendering of the Riverside Park redevelopment map. Image: Building a Better Batesville

The Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Batesville, will host a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. to mark the official launch of the $25 million redevelopment of Riverside Park. The event will take place onsite at the Riverside Park project area, overlooking the White River.

According to a joint release from the chamber and the city, “this long-awaited milestone signals the beginning of a transformation that will reshape the City’s beloved riverfront into a dynamic, inclusive, and future-ready public space. In collaboration with Clark Contractors, Ecological Design Group, and Taggart Architects, the City of Batesville is delivering on a bold, voter-approved vision to reimagine recreation, elevate quality of life, and honor the cultural and ecological significance of the White River.”

“Riverside Park has always been a special place for our residents. It’s more than just a park—it’s the heart of our community, the place where memories are made, and milestones are celebrated,” said City of Batesville Mayor Rick Elumbaugh. “This project is not just about building amenities—it’s about building a better future.”

The project received voter approval in a 2023 special election and will be funded through extension of an existing half-cent sales tax without raising taxes. The release said this approach “reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility and citizen-driven progress.”

The ceremony will include remarks from city leaders and project partners. Attendees will see the park’s redesign plans.

“This is more than a groundbreaking — it’s a celebration of civic pride, shared values, and our collective commitment to making Batesville a vibrant, thriving place for everyone,” said Crystal Johnson, president and CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce.

The park is scheduled for completion in December 2026. Officials say it will serve as a regional destination for outdoor activities, family recreation and community events, aligning “with broader goals to improve access to nature, promote healthy living, attract and retain talent, and bolster economic prosperity in Batesville and beyond.”

The Sara Low Memorial Dog Park, Municipal Golf Course and The River Waterfront Steak & Grill will remain open during construction.

For information, contact the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce at (870) 793-2378 or membership@batesvilleareachamber.com.