New Albany Shoreline Expands, New Trails and Water Recreation Options on Horizon

Three bids are set to be opened at today’s New Albany Redevelopment Commission meeting for projects that will increase recreational trail opportunities, promote better access to waterways, increase Ohio River Greenway connectivity to local neighborhoods, and expand on the highly popular Ohio River Greenway.

“This is an exciting time to live in New Albany, Indiana,” stated Mayor Jeff Gahan. “As we expand opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, we will also improve connectivity for our residents and all of Southern Indiana.”

The first project is an extension of the Ohio River Greenway trail. Currently, the Ohio River Greenway trail stops near the New Albany Flow Park along the Shoreline. This project will connect from that point down to the future River Recreation Site at the old QRS Recycling Center. This project will also distance the roadway from the Flow Park, improving safety for skaters and bikers. Construction is set to begin early next year. 

The two other bid openings were for projects at the Silver Creek Landing near the historic Glenmill Dam. The first project is a kayak launch point that has been in the works since 2016.

“This launch point is designed to provide the people of New Albany with new, safe, and easy access to Silver Creek, helping reconnect the residents to our city’s river heritage,” stated Mayor Jeff Gahan.

The final bid opening was for a recreational trail branching off of the Ohio River Greenway and connecting to the kayak launch at the Glenmill Dam. This connection will also tie in local neighborhoods along Silver Creek to the Ohio River greenway, increasing connectivity for residents. This trail is the first connector piece along the South Monon Freedom Trail.

The South Monon Freedom Trail is a 68-mile long recreational trail that will stretch through 5 Indiana counties (Clark, Floyd, Lawrence, Orange, and Washington), and connect nine Indiana towns and cities (Bedford, Mitchell, Saltillo, Campbellsburg, Salem, New Pekin, Borden, Orleans, and New Albany). When completed, this would be the longest, continuous recreation trail in Indiana, creating immense recreation and economic opportunities for the region.

Additional funding for the South Monon Freedom Trail was applied for by the City of New Albany through both the Regional Development Authority and Governor Holcomb’s Next Level Trails applications. Further announcements regarding the South Monon Freedom Trail are expected soon! 

Learn more about the New Albany Shoreline at newalbanyshoreline.com