Thank You for Renewing Your Membership | October 2024

by with No Comment Thank Your for Renewing Your Membership

One Southern Indiana would like to thank the following members that renewed their membership during the month of October 2024.

Quarter Century Club (25 Years or More)Member Since
Graceland Baptist Church1970
Huber’s Orchard, Winery & Vineyards1984
Star Electric1984
New Hope Services, Inc.1989
Duke Energy1993
  
Ten to 24 Years 
Kentucky Truck Sales2002
CBRE2006
Bowles Mattress Co., Inc.2007
CASI Community Action of Southern Indiana, Inc.2007
Cimtech, Inc.2007
Cornerstone Environmental, Health and Safety, Inc.2007
Dean Dorton Allen Ford, PLLC2008
Industrial Air Centers, Inc.2008
Stumler’s Catering2011
The Center for Women & Families2011
Peyton Technical Services, LLC2013
  
Five to Nine Years 
Seven Development, LLC d/b/a 7D Commercial Real Estate2015
The Wheatley Group2015
Borden Business Park, LLC2016
Trinity Dynamics, Inc.2016
Borden-Henryville School Corporation2017
Momentum Title Agency, LLC2017
Gaylor Electric2018
Louisville Regional Airport Authority2018
Hagerman Inc.2019
La Catrina Mexican Kitchen2019
  
Two to Four Years 
Fairfield by Marriott Louisville Jeffersonville 2020
KHIT Consulting2020
Poppin’ Flavors Gourmet Popcorn2020
Staff Management | SMX2020
Starlight Coffee Co. and Roastery2020
VACA, Inc.2020
Elder Advisers2021
Employbridge2021
GCCS Educational Foundation, Inc.2021
Jeff City Mix2021
Derby City Selfie2022
Fulton Smith Insurance2022
Infinity Homes and Development2022
Red Yeti2022
The Villages at Historic Silvercrest2022
WHAS112022
  
One Year 
Black Diamond Pest Control2023
Merrick Printing Co., Inc.2023
E-Z Construction2023
Louisville & Indiana Railroad2023

Welcome New Members | October 2024

by with No Comment Welcome New Members

One Southern Indiana would like to welcome the following new members that joined or rejoined during the month of October 2024.

SoIN Tourism Collecting Community Input for Resident Sentiment Survey 

by with No Comment Member News

Adult residents of Clark & Floyd counties can complete the survey November 4 – 18 

Southern Indiana (November 4, 2024) – SoIN Tourism, the Clark-Floyd Counties Convention & Tourism Bureau located in Southern Indiana, is seeking community input to help ensure tourism’s benefit to the region’s economy and local quality of life. From November 4 – 18, 2024, residents of Clark and Floyd counties in Indiana are invited to complete a Resident Sentiment Survey conducted by Longwoods International. 

The survey will measure how residents feel about tourism, including new businesses and developments and the overall impact of visitors on Clark and Floyd counties. Survey participants must be at least 18 years old and live in Clark or Floyd County, Indiana. All responses to the survey are completely confidential. 

To complete the survey and have your voice heard, click here. 

The survey takes 10-15 minutes to complete. Those who complete the survey will be entered for a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card. 

SoIN Tourism last conducted a resident sentiment survey in 2021 just as the tourism industry was beginning to recover from the pandemic. Collecting regular feedback from residents allows SoIN Tourism to identify areas of opportunity and address community concerns. 

For more information on the survey or to interview a SoIN Tourism representative, please contact Communications Manager Anna Rosales-Crone at Anna@GoSoIN.com or 812-282-6692. 

SoIN Tourism is the official destination marketing organization for Clark and Floyd Counties in Southern Indiana, just north of Louisville, Ky. Offering authentic experiences in the Kentuckiana region, SoIN includes historic downtowns in Jeffersonville and New Albany, Clarksville’s retail corridor, as well as the communities of Charlestown, Floyds Knobs, Henryville, Memphis, New Washington, Sellersburg, and Starlight. Visitors who would like more information can visit the destination’s website, GoSoIN.com. 

 

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Melvin and Vickie Jensen Nature Preserve and Trails to Be Dedicated November 12

by with No Comment Member News

Name for the 200-Acre Regional Park to Be Announced at the Same Event

NEW ALBANY, IN — The Floyd County Commissioners and Floyd County Parks & Recreation will jointly hold a formal dedication and ribbon cutting of the new Melvin and Vickie Jensen Nature Preserve and Trails at noon on Tuesday, November 12, at the site on 1430 N Tucker Road in Georgetown, Indiana. Members of the Jensen family will be on hand. The 75-acre preserve includes several miles of trails, all of which will be open to the public.

At the same ceremony, the official name will be unveiled for the new 200-acre regional park which will be adjacent to Novaparke Innovation & Technology Campus in Georgetown and which will encompass both the Melvin and Vickie Jensen Nature Preserve and Trails (formerly the Jensen farm) and the former site of the 156-acre Mitsch farm. Upon completion, the park will be the largest in Floyd County, and will also include sports fields, agricultural activities and more. The park will be adjacent to Novaparke on one end, allowing employees of the

companies who locate there to access its trails and other resources, and to the Brookstone subdivision on the other, and will lie just across State Road 64 from the Knob Hill subdivision.

“Melvin Jensen was known for the love he had for his property,” Floyd County Director of Operations Don Lopp noted. “He reached out to us before his passing in 2022, and his family has been very supportive of what he wanted to do in terms of maintaining his dream of a park and a trail system.”

Added Floyd County Commissioner Al Knable, “Both the Melvin and Vickie Jensen Nature Preserve and Trails and the regional park as a whole will add greatly to the quality of life in Floyd County, and will serve as a destination for residents as well as visitors from outside the county.”

Matt Denison, Superintendent of Floyd County Parks and Recreation, said, “One of the qualities that draws people to an area is the presence of parks and other outdoor attractions. As part of our Master Plan, these two additions will greatly enhance the already vibrant park system in Floyd County.”

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Don Lopp
Floyd County Director of Operations & Planning
(812) 981-7611                                                         
dlopp@floydcounty.in.gov                                      

Matt Denison
Superintendent, Floyd County Parks and Recreation
(812) 948-5360
mdenison@floydcounty.in.gov

Economic Update | Is the Weak Jobs Report an Early Signal?

by with No Comment Economic Development

–And Consumers Power Ahead 

submitted by
Uric Dufrene, Ph.D., Sanders Chair in Business, Indiana University Southeast

The U.S. economy saw the smallest monthly gain in payrolls since 2020.  The BLS monthly employment report showed that payrolls increased by only 12,000 in October, significantly under the 112,000 that was expected. The unemployment rate remained flat at 4.1%. Two hurricanes, including one that occurred during the survey reporting period, along with a major Boeing strike, were cited as possible reasons for the overall weak number. Given the uncertainty, this is not necessarily a signal for a broader slowdown in the economy. We should treat it as a one-off and wait until the next employment report for additional hints of a developing trend. 

Here are some of the reasons why the weak employment number is not part of a broader slowdown. First, we can look at weekly unemployment claims. In the past two weeks, unemployment claims have continued to decline and have come in under consensus estimates.  Last week, claims were at a very low 216,000, which is well under any level associated with a weakening economy.  Secondly the ADP Report, a labor report produced by the private firm ADP on the Wednesday before the BLS report, showed that the nation added 233,000 jobs, well over the consensus of 104,000.  The ADP report is historically volatile and there is debate around its usefulness. Nonetheless, it is a data point, and one that does convey some information about the labor market. Finally, the consumer continues to be resilient.  Making up 2/3rds of the U.S. economy, the consumer continues to drive economic growth. Recent consumer surveys showed increases in consumer optimism, and the latest report on consumer spending showed healthy gains.   

A strong economy was evident with the latest GDP report.  The preliminary report on GDP showed that gross domestic product increased by 2.7% over the prior year, higher than the consensus estimate of 2.5%. Over the quarter, growth was 2.8%, and of the 2.8%, consumers contributed 2.46 points out of the 2.8%. Consumers drove growth in the third quarter, and with rising consumer sentiment numbers, there are no noticeable signs of a consumer slowdown just yet. 

On the inflation front, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, the core PCE price index, was a little hotter than expected and above the Fed’s target of 2%. While the Fed has made tremendous progress in driving the inflation rate down, it remains elevated and above target. As we mentioned in the last update, after the Fed’s unexpected cut of ½ percent, the 10-Year Treasury started climbing, and last week, saw additional gains, closing at 4.4%, and up from 3.7% just a few weeks ago. The yield closed higher after the dismal employment report, suggesting that bond participants were not pricing any significant slowdown due to the weaker jobs report. Market participants continue to price two additional rate cuts, but we can likely expect the pace to slow.    

Higher interest rates will continue to impact interest rate sectors like manufacturing, and the latest employment report showed a decline of 46,000 jobs. The ISM Manufacturing Index showed continued contraction in the sector, with the index coming in at 46.5, lower than expected. Slower manufacturing has had an impact on manufacturing intensive states like Indiana and Kentucky, with slower payroll gains and unemployment rates that exceed the national average.   

There had been increasing doubt about remaining Fed cuts this year, due to sticky core inflation and robustness of the consumer.  The weak jobs report sealed the deal for the case for cuts remaining this year. As we go into 2025, expect the pace for cuts to slow and become more uncertain. 

IU Southeast’s Michelle Williams Selected for National Academic Leadership Academy

by with One Comment Member News

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (Nov. 1, 2024) – The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) has selected Dr. Michelle Williams, executive vice chancellor for academic affairs at Indiana University Southeast as one of 25 outstanding higher education leaders to participate in its 2024 Academy for New Provosts (ANP).

The leadership development program is designed for the specific needs of new provosts at state colleges and universities. The program, which is in its fifth year, gives cohort members the opportunity to connect with their peers as they learn strategies for tackling the distinctive challenges they will face in their role.

“My excitement in participating in the Academy for New Provosts is the opportunity to join other chief academic officers from across the country in an environment that fosters collaboration and synergy,” said Williams. “Universities foster curiosity, creativity, and innovation dynamically. This yearlong academy will provide networking opportunities to share ideas and best practices, so all participants learn from each other’s experiences.”

Williams assumed the role of Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (EVCAA) in February 2024, and serves as the chief academic officer, responsible for the management, quality, development, coordination, evaluation, and promotion of all academic programs and courses on or off the IU Southeast campus.

The EVCAA oversees all faculty matters and has overall responsibility for periodic review of academic programs and regular assessment of academic achievement, retention, persistence, and institutional effectiveness for program improvement. The EVCAA also serves in the chancellor’s absence as the institution’s senior institutional officer.

Before her appointment at IU Southeast, Williams served as the vice provost of the University of West Florida.

“Congratulations to Dr. Williams on being selected to participate in the AASCU Academy for new provosts,” said Dr. Debbie Ford, chancellor of IU Southeast. “ASSCU is a trusted partner in preparing and inspiring the next generation of academic leaders who serve as champions of student success.”

ANP will prepare new provosts to build trust through effective communication; strengthen their psychological and physical resilience; navigate between the president’s vision and the expectations of faculty members; integrate academic planning with budget, facility, and IT planning; manage key relationships for success; and understand principles of exemplary academic leadership, change management, and university finance and budget.

The 2024 Academy for New Provosts met in Washington, D.C., Oct. 22-25 for their first in-person gathering. The group will also participate in monthly virtual learning and networking sessions. ANP is made possible, in part, by generous support from AASCU strategic partner Ad Astra.

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About IU Southeast: IU Southeast is one of nine campuses of Indiana University. Offering top-quality and nationally accredited programs in education, nursing, business, social sciences, natural sciences, arts and humanities, the scenic 180-acre campus is located less than 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It currently has over 3,750 students and employs over 360 faculty members. About 400 students live on campus in five fully furnished, lodge-style residence halls. Through an agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Indiana University Southeast offers in-state tuition to students enrolled from eight counties in the Louisville region. For more information, visit https://southeast.iu.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus.

pāco manufacturing Gears Up for Growth: Precision Automation Expands Operations in Clarksville, IN with $157K Investment and Job Creation

by with No Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Clarksville, IN. (Oct. 29, 2024) 

Precision Automation Company, Inc. (pāco manufacturing) will undergo expansion as they merge their New Jersey-located manufacturing operation to Clarksville, Indiana, which will more than double their throughput capacity. In addition to relocating 15 pieces of production machinery and support infrastructure from the New Jersey location, the project involves a total capital investment of $157,017 and will create approximately 14 new full-time positions by 2025. The company has 14 associates at its current location. The move also includes ongoing training for new business activities with $153,000 in expected total training expenditure by 2025. 

Since 1946, Precision Automation Company, Inc. has provided high quality Automation Systems, Contract Machine Work, Fabrication, Machinery, Controls, and related integration services that improve productivity for their customers. Additionally, they work with several industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, warehousing and distribution centers, and consumer goods. Now, they will continue to serve a diversity of markets both domestically and globally by expanding their Clarksville operation which has been in Indiana since 1953 and the current Clarksville location since 1968. 

Robert Daily, pāco manufacturing vice president, shares “We look forward to our expanded operations in Clarksville, Indiana. This expansion marks an exciting new chapter for our company as we integrate our New Jersey-based manufacturing operation into our Indiana facility. We are committed to investing in our local community by offering competitive wages and training to contribute to our employees’ success. We are excited to increase our capacity, continue providing high quality products to our customers, and watching Clarksville grow stronger because of our efforts.” 

Based on the company’s Indiana job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) committed an investment in pāco manufacturing of up to $130,000 in the form of incentive-based tax credits. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired.   

“Indiana’s rich tradition of manufacturing excellence remains strong today thanks to the commitment of companies like pāco manufacturing,” said Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer at the IEDC. “Indiana has a robust ecosystem of manufacturers statewide that are developing new innovations and supporting high-quality careers, investing alongside our state and communities to create a better future for Hoosiers.” 

Clarksville Town Manager Kevin Baity said “Clarksville is proud to welcome the expansion of pāco manufacturing to our community. With significant investment and the creation of new, high-paying jobs, pāco is not only contributing to our economy, but also enhancing Clarksville’s reputation as a hub for innovation and industry. We look forward to their continued success and are excited to support their growth in our community.” 

“We are delighted about the expansion of Precision Automation in Southern Indiana,” said One Southern Indiana CEO and President Lance Allison. “The move underscores the attractiveness of our business and economic development environment and the strong network we offer to companies looking to grow in the region.” 

About pāco manufacturing 
Since 1946, Precision Automation Company, Inc. and pāco manufacturing provides high quality Automation Systems, Contract Machine Work, Fabrication, Machinery, Controls, and related integration services that improve productivity in our customers’ manufacturing and product handling processes. As an ISO 9001:2015 Certified Company and business certified by ISNetworld, they are held to the highest standards of quality in their industry. It is their commitment to continuously improve performance and capabilities in order to maintain their competitive edge. 

About One Southern Indiana 
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the economic development organization and chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd counties. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development, and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org.  

Contact: 
pāco manufacturing 
Robert Daily | pāco manufacturing 
Bobd@pācomanufacturing.com | 812-283-7963 

One Southern Indiana 
Ellinor Smith | Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager 
EllinorS@1si.org | 217-320-4832 

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US Armed Forces contractor announces second major expansion in Southern Indiana 

by with One Comment 1si News1si Press ReleaseEconomic Development

Conco, Inc. Expanding their facility with $71 million investment in Scottsburg.  

Scottsburg, IN. (October 28, 2024) 

Southern Indiana is celebrating another expansion of Conco, a full-time, full-service supplier of ammunition containers and related services. The company plans to invest another $71.4 million to expand their Scottsburg location, adding 150,000 square feet to the existing facility to accommodate increased state-of-the art manufacturing, finishing, and storage capabilities. The expansion will also create an additional 175 full-time jobs with an hourly average wage of $30 per hour. This is in addition to the $54 million capital investment and 175 jobs announced in September 2023, bringing the total on-site employment to 350.  

Conco has served the United States Armed Forces as a full-time supplier since 1967. With a strong reputation for high-quality products, on-time delivery, and technical support, they continue to meet the military’s needs and develop innovative products to adapt to ever-changing requirements. Conco is also a designated “return site” equipped to store, de-militarize, and prepare container models for reuse and resale. Their specialized products include insensitive munitions, rectangular containers, square bell containers, and round bell containers, in addition to their refurbished ammunition container options.  

“The Conco team couldn’t be more excited about our continued growth in Southern Indiana,” said Karen Paschal, President and CEO of Conco. “As we increase our production goals, investing in our Scottsburg facility is the ideal solution and will position us to fulfill our duty as a mission-critical defense partner. We are honored to partner alongside the City of Scottsburg and the State of Indiana to create additional growth and opportunities for our region.” 

Based on the company’s job creation plans, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) has committed to an investment in Conco of up to $1.9 million in the form of performance-based tax credits. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired. In addition, the City of Scottsburg is offering the company personal and real property tax abatement, phasing in over five and ten years, respectively. 

Mayor Terry Amick of Scottsburg shares, “The expansion of Conco into Scottsburg represents a major milestone for our community. Their combined $125 million in capital investment and 350 local jobs will have a transformative impact on our local economy. We’re eager as a city to support Conco and to see the positive effects their presence will bring to our growing community.” 

“Indiana is playing a critical role in national security thanks to the commitment and collaboration of the state’s defense ecosystem,” said Ann Lathrop, chief strategy officer at the IEDC. “From our federal installations to innovators supporting the global supply chain to defense contractors like Conco, Indiana is keeping citizens safe while supporting continued economic growth. Conco’s latest expansion will bolster the state’s defense sector while creating quality career opportunities and bolstering new community growth in southern Indiana.” 

“Conco’s expansion in Southern Indiana is a significant win for our region and we are thrilled to support their continued growth,” said Lance Allison, President and CEO of One Southern Indiana. “Their investment and job creation in Scottsburg showcases the strength of our local economy and the opportunities that exist for businesses to thrive. Conco’s long-standing service to the United States Armed Forces, combined with their innovative approach, highlights the kind of forward-thinking companies we are proud to have in Southern Indiana.” 

About Conco, Inc. 
Conco is a designated “small business” with 50 years of experience dedicated to the ammunition container market and is ISO 9001:2015 certified. Conco is centrally located in Louisville, KY, and is currently the prime contract container supplier for several U.S. Army ammunition programs. For more information, visit concocontainers.com. If interested in a position at Conco, email resumes to resumes@concocontainers.com. 

About One Southern Indiana 
One Southern Indiana (1si) was formed in July of 2006 as the chamber of commerce and economic development organization, now serving Clark, Floyd, and Scott County. 1si’s mission is to help businesses innovate and thrive in the Southern Indiana / Louisville metro area via the three pillars of Business Resources, Economic Development and Advocacy. For more information on One Southern Indiana, visit www.1si.org. 

Contact: 
Conco, Inc. 
Karen Paschal | President & CEO 
kpaschal@concocontainers.com 

One Southern Indiana 
Ellinor Smith | Content Marketing and Media Relations Manager 
Ellinors@1si.org | 217-320-4832 

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IU Southeast seeking for entries for The Next Big Thing Pitch Competition

by with No Comment Member News

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (Oct.25, 2024) – The IU Southeast School of Business and The Novaparke Innovation and Technology Campus are taking entries to The Next BIG Thing Pitch Competition. As part of Global Entrepreneurship Week, the competition is a celebration of all entrepreneurs and the entrepreneurial spirit.

“Global Entrepreneurship Week is celebrated worldwide, and the IU Southeast School of Business is thrilled to be a part of this celebration in Southern Indiana,” said Dr. Aycan Kara, associate professor of strategic management and entrepreneurship at the IU Southeast School of Business. “This year’s theme, ‘Entrepreneurship Is for Everyone,’ perfectly captures our region’s entrepreneurial spirit.”

“Our community boasts a diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem. Small startups coexist with large multi-million-dollar companies that maintain an entrepreneurial mindset. Seasoned business owners work alongside first-time entrepreneurs, creating a vibrant mix of experience and fresh ideas,” said Kara.

Entrepreneurs entering the competition will have the chance to present their ideas to a panel of experts, entrepreneurs, and mentors, who will provide valuable feedback and guidance on each project. Registrants will also compete with other individuals/teams from around southern Indiana and the best pitches will receive cash awards, mentorship, and exposure.

There are two categories for entry including the Fast Pitch, and Pitch Tank competitions. A total of $30,000 will be split between the competition categories, along with office space at NovaParke Innovation & Technology Campus, and memberships to Maker13.

Sponsors for The Next Big Thing Pitch Competition include IU Southeast, NovaParke Innovation and Technology Campus, Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC), Republic Bank, Ideology, the Root Co-Working Space, Floyd County Library, and Maker13.

The Fast Pitch competition is for individuals/teams who have identified a problem to solve, have addressed a customer need, have executed market research, and have a rough business plan; however, they have not identified or finalized a minimum viable product or service to offer. Businesses must have operated for six months or fewer. The first-place award for the Fast Pitch competition is $5,000 in non-dilutive grant funding and a one-year membership to Maker 13 in Jeffersonville, IN.

The Pitch Tank is for individuals/teams who have a completed business plan and have identified a specific minimum viable product or service to offer. . The first-place award for the Pitch Tank competition is $25,000 in non-dilutive grant funding and office space for the 2025 calendar year at Novaparke Innovation and Technology Campus in Georgetown, IN.

Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. The application must include a completed application, a three-minute elevator pitch video, and an executive summary, not to exceed 1,000 words. Finalists will be selected, and all applicants will be sent a notification email by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 13.

The Live Event will take place on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the IU Southeast Hoosier Room. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for networking.

“The Next Big Thing Pitch Competition, in only its second year, is a great event that helps community innovators, and our students understand that they can be part of a local and university-wide entrepreneurial support system of mentors, peer support, and resources,” said Dr. Seuth Chaleunphonh, regional campus and online education faculty fellow and regional coordinator for IU Innovates.

“The Next BIG Thing Pitch Competition is one way to showcase and celebrate this entrepreneurial spirit. We believe no idea is too small to pitch or build a business around. Entrepreneurship is for everyone, regardless of your background or experience: Whether

you’re a musician, maker, teacher, coder, tech enthusiast, seasoned entrepreneur, serial innovator, or just starting your journey,” said Kara.

For more information or to submit a registration, visit the Next BIG Thing event page, https://events.iu.edu/southeast/event/1659683-the-next-big-thing-pitch-competition.

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About IU Southeast: IU Southeast is one of seven campuses of Indiana University. Offering more than 150 degree programs and concentrations, the scenic 180-acre campus is located less than 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It currently has over 3,750 students and employs over 360 faculty members. About 400 students live on campus in five fully furnished, lodge-style residence halls. Through an agreement with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Indiana University Southeast offers in-state tuition to students enrolled from eight counties in the Louisville region. IU Southeast has three nationally recognized, accredited schools including the School of Business, School of Education, and School of Nursing. For more information, visit https://southeast.iu.edu. IU Southeast is a tobacco-free campus.

Waterfront Botanical Gardens Receives $5 Million in City, State Funding to Advance Its Master Plan

by with No Comment Member News

Celebrates 5th Anniversary of Public Opening

LOUISVILLE, KY (October 24, 2024) — Waterfront Botanical Gardens is excited to announce $5 million in new funding to accelerate the next phase of its Master Plan. The funding includes $4 million from the Kentucky General Assembly and $1 million from Louisville Metro, coming as the Gardens celebrate five years since opening to the public.

“We are deeply grateful for this unprecedented support from both the Kentucky General Assembly and Louisville Metro,” said Philip Koester, President & CEO of Waterfront Botanical Gardens. “This marks a pivotal moment for the Gardens as we embark on Phase 2 of construction, creating even more opportunities for people to connect with nature in this unique urban oasis. We are thankful for their confidence in our vision for a greener, healthier Kentucky.”

Funding Allocation and Project Details

The $5 million will come from both the state and local governments. The Kentucky General Assembly will provide $2 million in 2024 and another $2 million in 2025, while Louisville Metro’s $1 million contribution will be disbursed by the end of this year. Phase 2 includes the Japanese Garden. The $5 million from city and state will focus on infrastructure for Phase 2A—the Graeser Family Bonsai Garden, Tree Allée, and Beargrass Creek Overlook. Phase 2B will see the completion of the remainder of the Japanese Garden designed by Shiro Nakane of Kyoto, Japan.

Senate President Robert Stivers praised the project’s transformative impact, stating, “Waterfront Botanical Gardens stands for what was once a blight on Louisville’s landscape, transforming it into a beacon of possibility, repurposed with vision into something that inspires and uplifts. In addition to creating a uniquely beautiful green space, Waterfront Botanical Gardens provides environmental education and community events, which mean opportunities for economic development. The $4 million investment in this project is an investment in the quality of life for Kentuckians, and we are proud to showcase Kentucky as a vibrant arts and cultural destination for visitors from the region and around the world.”

Construction Timeline

The Gardens plan to break ground on Phase 2A in early 2025. Initial work will focus on “preloading” the site—a process of compacting soil to ensure stability for future structures. This step is especially critical given the Gardens’ location on the former Ohio Street Dump. The preloading process will take approximately six months, during which time design and construction teams will remobilize. Full construction is expected to commence in the fall of 2025.

In addition to government support, the Gardens are actively working with individual donors and foundations to reach their total fundraising goal of $10.2 million for Phase 2A.

Endorsement from Community, Government Leaders

Senate Caucus Chair Julie Raque Adams also expressed her enthusiasm for the project, noting its importance for the community. “Waterfront Botanical Gardens is a true cultural treasure for Kentucky, offering more than just a beautiful space. It is an opportunity to elevate the quality of life for everyone who visits. We are committed to supporting the Gardens’ continued growth because public green spaces foster connection, education, and well-being. Completing Waterfront Botanical Gardens’ Master Plan will be a huge win for the Commonwealth, and we are proud to invest in that vision.”

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg shared his excitement for what the Gardens have accomplished, and the future ahead. He said, “I know that you all are just getting started, and that’s one of the reasons you have such strong public support. You are already a tremendous asset to our city, to our entire state. The future is so exciting.” He continued, “Taking a landfill and turning it into a botanic garden, it’s also an economic driver for downtown Louisville, and for our entire region, and the Commonwealth.”

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Waterfront Botanical Gardens is developing an urban botanical garden just east of Downtown Louisville by transforming a landfill and creating a place where nature prospers and people thrive through education, entertainment, community, and tourism.

The Gardens opened to the public in October 2019, and have developed approximately five acres of the full 23-acre site. In 2023, the Gardens welcomed over 56,000 visitors. Phase 1 of a 4-Phase Master Plan has been completed. Visit waterfrontgardens.org/news/press-room for the Phase 2 Press Kit.

Waterfront Botanical Gardens is free and open to the public, with a suggested admission of $10. For hours of operation, events and programs, and parking/accessibility information, visit waterfrontgardens.org.