COMMON QUESTIONS
We understand that as a community member- and a park user- you will have questions and concerns about the construction process. Below, we have outlined several of the most common questions. If the list below doesn't take care of your question, you are always welcome to reach out to the parks staff by emailing your question to Parks@richmondindiana.gov.
WHY EVEN UPDATE THE PARK?
The improvements within Whitewater Gorge Park surfaced as a community priority in the 2018-2019 community planning process, and were further emphasized in the 2020 Parks and Recreation Five-Year Master Planning effort. The documented value of parks and open spaces has allowed City leaders and staff to focus on determining how
parks and recreation can continue to be an asset, growing and connecting the City’s built environment, while also
protecting and celebrating the region’s destinations and unique natural resources.
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The full reasoning behind the improvements can be found in the Activate: Whitewater Gorge Activation Plan.
IS THE CITY PAYING FOR EVERYTHING?
No. The Parks and Recreation Department has been fortunate to receive financial support from stakeholders across the community, including state agencies, philanthropic organizations, and private institutions.
WHEN WILL TEST ROAD TRAILHEAD CLOSE?
The park entrance along Test Road is currently closed and will likely remain closed through the end of 2025. This closure primarily impacts the vehicular parking lot at the Test Road Trailhead. This area was closed to provide the maximum level of safety to both park users and the contractor team.
IS THE WHITEWATER GORGE TRAIL CLOSED TOO?
Currently, the trail remains open in all areas except the grounds located at the Test Road Trailhead. During the construction phase, a larger portion of the Whitewater Gorge Trail (extending away from the trailhead) will be closed for planned improvements. Signage and digital notices will be posted in advance.
IS THERE MORE CONSTRUCTION PLANNED?
Yes! The Parks and Recreation Department has been awarded multiple grants, which will extend construction activities throughout the park. Locations and timelines vary, but all improvements should be complete by 2028. Learn more here.
I RECEIVED A LETTER IN THE MAIL SAYING I WAS A CONSULTING PARTY.
The first phase of improvements is being funded through a Land and Water Conservation grant, which is a Federal funding source. Federal funds require that the impact of proposed projects on historic properties be included in the effort. The letter you received was issued as part of our process to identify project concerns overall, but with an emphasis on cultural and historic impacts.
I HEAR WE CAN LAUNCH A KAYAK?
If you want! The overall goal is to increase the access and visibility of the Whitewater River. This means new observation areas, natural walkways, and in some cases, physical access to the water itself. Since the water levels fluctuate throughout the year, we cannot guarantee that water levels will allow for efficient navigation.
