Duke Energy awards grants to local economic development organizations to boost growth, job creation in southern Indiana

PLAINFIELD, Ind. – Duke Energy has selected four economic development organizations in southern Indiana for inclusion in its 2025 Partnership Program, which funds marketing and strategic efforts to attract new jobs and investment to Indiana.

“This program gives our local economic development partners the tools they need to showcase the strengths of their communities – both at home and on the national stage,” said Erin Schneider, managing director of economic development at Duke Energy. “It’s just one of the many ways we’re helping influence growth in the state to build competitive, thriving communities.”

Partnership Program grant funds can be used to support a wide array of marketing initiatives, including trade show attendance, website redesign, promotional materials, and presentations or tours to introduce prospective companies and site selectors to a community.

To qualify for program consideration, each applicant submitted a plan that would have a direct impact on their community’s economic growth. Grant amounts varied depending on the size and scope of the project.

This year, grants were awarded to the following southern Indiana organizations:

One Southern Indiana – $5,000

Grant funds will support the implementation of a new, state-of-the-art customer relationship management system. This system will serve as a centralized hub for managing community projects, tracking incentive programs and analyzing economic impact. It will provide comprehensive reporting, site selection services, incentive advisory and compliance management tools to streamline operations and drive economic development.

Orange County Economic Development Partnership – $2,000

Grant funds will support marketing efforts for talent attraction as part of French Lick’s Klondike workforce housing development.

Pike County Economic Development Corporation – $5,000

Grant funds will support social media content development and management for the organization, as well as the production of a 90-second promotional video.

Southwest Indiana Development Council – $5,000

Grant funds will support the Southwest Indiana Development Council’s membership with the Transatlantic Business & Investment Council and foreign direct investment marketing efforts.

Duke Energy Indiana

Duke Energy Indiana, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, provides about 6,300 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 910,000 customers in a 23,000-square-mile service area, making it Indiana’s largest electric supplier.

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Tourism Capital Development Fund (TCDF) Call for Applications 

Up to $1 million available for place-making projects in Indiana’s Clark and Floyd counties 

Southern Indiana (May 15, 2025) – SoIN Tourism, the Clark-Floyd Counties Convention & Tourism Bureau, will award up to $1 million in total to support high-impact, transformative place-making projects spearheaded by Clark and Floyd County non-profits and government entities. Applications for a 2025 round of funding from the Tourism Capital Development Fund (TCDF) managed by SoIN Tourism will be accepted starting June 2, 2025. The deadline to apply is August 31, 2025. 

The program offers a unique partnership designed to enhance visitor experiences and the quality of life for residents. Awards granted will range from $100,000 to $250,000. Applications will be reviewed in the fall, and recipients will be selected by the end of 2025. New this year, SoIN Tourism Executive Director Jim Epperson will host an Information Session for interested parties to learn more and ask questions. 

What: Tourism Capital Development Fund Information Session 

Date: Thursday, June 5 

Time: 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. 

Where: Southern Indiana Visitor Center, 228 Spring Street, Suite 106, Jeffersonville, IN 47130 

The TCDF program has been in place since 1984 when the Indiana General Assembly enacted an additional 1% innkeeper’s tax to support tourism capital development projects in Clark and Floyd counties. That portion increased to 1.5% in 2019 and represents 25% of the Bureau’s total funding.  

For more than 30 years, the program has assisted in the development of signature projects that improve the quality of place enjoyed by visitors and residents of Southern Indiana. Most recently, the program supported: Clarksville Central Green, Falls of the Ohio State Park Education Pavilion, Town of Borden Historic Bank Building Repurpose, and Charlestown Family Activities Park Phase II Expansion. 

Interested applicants can view full details and requirements at GoSoIN.com/business/partner-support/. If you are interested in interviewing someone about the TCDF, 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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IU Southeast Presents Mid-Year Economic Update 

NEW ALBANY, Ind. (May 9, 2025) – The Indiana University Southeast School of Business offers faculty, business leaders, and community residents an opportunity to learn more about the local economy. 

The Mid-Year Economic Update, sponsored by the IU Southeast School of Business, will be held at 8 a.m., Thursday, May 22, 2025, in the Hoosier Room located in University Center North, on the IU Southeast campus at 4201 Grant Line Rd in New Albany. Breakfast is from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., followed by the presentation. 

Sanders Chair in Business, Dr. Uric Dufrene, will speak about national trends and the implications for the local economy. Dufrene, former IU Southeast Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and the IU Southeast School of Business Dean, will also highlight the most recent data available for the Greater Louisville and Southern Indiana economy. 

Dufrene, along with industry experts from the IU Kelley School of Business, shared economic predictions at the annual Indiana Business Outlook Panel last November. At the Mid-Year Economic Update, Dufrene will provide updates about the predictions made in November, and he will offer predictions for the remainder of the year. 

This event is free and open to the public, but reservations are required. For more information or to register by Friday, May 16, contact the School of Business at (812) 941-2362 or business@ius.edu. More information is available at https://go.iu.edu/economic-update.    

 

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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. 

 

Friends of the Louisville Zoo announces 2025 event season

Beloved gala Zoofari returns June 13; new adults-only event, Skelebration, debuts this fall

LOUISVILLE, KY. (April 24, 2025) – Friends of the Louisville Zoo (FOZ) is planning a year of fundraising and fun with the return of their annual gala, Zoofari, and a new treat for adults this fall, Skelebration!

Louisville Zoo’s premier gala, Zoofari, coordinated and hosted by the FOZ Board, brings together community leaders and Zoo advocates for an event as unique and special as the Zoo! This year’s “Evening of Elegance” gala will occur on Friday, June 13, and will celebrate the snow leopard. Zoofari guests will be whisked away from the entrance of the Zoo for an exclusive evening of animal encounters, an elevated cocktail hour on the Snow Leopard Pass plaza, live and silent auctions, and an inspired dinner experience and entertainment. The fun continues with an exciting after-party featuring live music by Best Kept Secret, late-night bites and more! Zoofari tickets are available at LouisvilleZoo.org/zoofari.

New this year, FOZ will debut Skelebration on Wednesday, October 8. This exclusive after-hours event for adults 21 and over, will immerse guests in Halloween excitement from the moment they enter the Zoo. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy tasty bites, cocktails, mocktails, treats and perhaps a few haunts as they stroll through the Zoo. 

“The hard work and dedication of our Friends of the Zoo board members who annually create events full of fanciful, whimsical fun and fundraising is inspirational. We are fortunate to have so many in the community join us at these annual events to honor and celebrate the animals and work of our Zoo team. The collective commitment to species conservation is powerful,” said Zoo Director Dan Maloney.

Combined, Zoofari and Skelebration will bring thousands of people together in fun, exciting ways to raise funds for and celebrate the significant work of the Zoo and its role in the community and region. The events directly benefit the Zoo’s capital projects and their superior work to conserve species, care for animals and offer educational programming. To learn more, please visit LouisvilleZoo.org/Friends.

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Established in 1969, the Friends of the Louisville Zoo (FOZ) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with a mission of “raising funds to preserve, promote and advance the mission of the Louisville Zoo.” For over 5o years, the FOZ Board has been comprised of individuals who are passionate about animals and committed to the advancement of the Zoo. Proceeds from their past events have supported projects such as Glacier Run, Gorilla Forest, Snow Leopard Pass, the lakeside bridge and the sloth habitat.

The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), a global alliance of zoos and aquariums.

Town of Georgetown Acquires Future Town Hall with Support from Caesars Foundation of Floyd County

GEORGETOWN, INDIANA – (April 24, 2025) – The Town of Georgetown is proud to announce the purchase of a future Town Hall, located at 1618 Canal Lane. This significant acquisition was made possible through the generous support of the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County, which awarded the Town a $500,000 Major Grant toward the purchase of the building.

The future Town Hall marks an exciting milestone for Georgetown, providing an improved space to better serve residents, enhance municipal operations, and accommodate future growth. The move to 1618 Canal Lane allows for increased accessibility, greater efficiency, and expanded capabilities for town administration and public services. The future Town Hall will house the Town’s Police Department, Clerk’s Office, and Town Manager.

The Caesars Foundation of Floyd County’s Major Grant Program is designed to provide substantial funding to projects that create a lasting impact on local communities. The $500,000 grant awarded to Georgetown reflects the foundation’s commitment to supporting critical infrastructure improvements that enhance municipal services and contribute to the well-being of residents. This investment ensures that the Town can continue to grow and serve its community effectively.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County for their generous contribution to our community,” said Chris Loop, Town Council President of the Town of Georgetown. “Without their support, this project could not have happened.”

Town Manager Reny Keener added, “This new facility will greatly improve how we serve our residents and provide a much-needed upgrade for our town operations. We look forward to making this a central hub for our growing community.”

“We are proud to be a part of this significant milestone for Georgetown, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact the future Town Hall will have on residents and local governance,” said Tyler Bliss, Executive Director of the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County.

The acquisition of the building aligns with Georgetown’s ongoing commitment to progress and sustainability. The new location will not only house essential town offices but also serve as a hub for civic engagement and community initiatives.

The Town of Georgetown will invite residents to celebrate this exciting development with plans for an official ribbon-cutting ceremony and public open house in early 2026 after an initial remodel has been completed.

About the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County:

Caesars Foundation of Floyd County was established in 1999 for the benefit of Floyd County and has awarded $65 million to local organizations through the annual grant cycles, scholarships, small business revolving loan fund, and major grants because of the $74 million in contributions from Caesars Southern Indiana. For additional information, visit www.CaesarsFoundationFC.org.

About the Town of Georgetown:

The Town of Georgetown prioritizes transparency, communication, leveraging outside funding, and maintaining Town-owned assets to create smart investments for a more vibrant and growing community.

To learn more about the Town, Town Events, and Town Projects please visit Georgetown.in.gov or call Town Hall at 812-951-3012.

Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TownofGeorgetownIndiana/

 

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Contact
Town of Georgetown

Town Manager Reny Keener
812-951-3012
Reny.Keener@georgetown.in.gov

Caesars Foundation of Floyd County
Tyler Bliss, Executive Director
812-945-4332
Tyler@CaesarsFoundationFC.org

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY WITH LOUISVILLE’S WATERFRONT BOTANICAL GARDENS

(Louisville, KY)–Waterfront Botanical Gardens (WBG) invites Louisville locals to experience a day of conservation, community, and celebration on Earth Day, April 22, 2025. From educational opportunities for guests of all ages to a neighborhood clean-up that will leave the land and water healthier than we found it, all are welcome to support WBG’s mission to honor and protect the environment, both above and below ground.

The full schedule of events and registration links are available here, and outlined below.

8:30-10:30 a.m.: Members are invited to Member Morning, where they can stroll the gardens before it opens to the public and enjoy complimentary coffee or tea from Heine Brothers, as well as light bites. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own mug to reduce waste.

9:30-10:30 a.m.: Join Christopher Ross, president of Apis Rescue for Coffee & Conservation: Apis Rescue and the Future of Sustainable Beekeeping* for an insightful discussion on the future of sustainable beekeeping and pollinator conservation.

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.: Children ages 12 and up and their families are invited to Education Stations in the Gardens* for hands-on learning about nature, sustainability, and conservation.

1 p.m.-3:30 p.m.: Join Rumpke, Beargrass Thunder, and Endless Summer Paddle Company for a Neighborhood Trash Pick-up by both land and water on Frankfort Avenue and Beargrass Creek. Following the pick-up, Rumpke will teach participants how to sort trash from recyclables.

4 p.m.: Enjoy a well-earned drink at Happy Hour with Ten20 Brewery in Butchertown to celebrate a day of environmental action and community connection.

*Though these events are free, a suggested donation of $5 per person would be gratefully accepted.

About Waterfront Botanical Gardens

Waterfront Botanical Gardens is an urban botanical garden just east of Downtown Louisville, built on the site of a former landfill that was closed in the 1970s. The unique and innovative project opened to the public in December 2019, and is a place where nature prospers and people thrive through education, entertainment, community, and tourism. The first phase of a four-phase masterplan has been completed, representing the development of approximately five acres of the 23-acre site. Phase 2 will include the addition of the Bonsai House and Display Gardens, which will one day host the Gardens’ signature Bonsai Weekend.

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.

Visitors Spend and Residents Save in Southern Indiana

Southern Indiana (April 16, 2025) – More than $550 million spent by visitors in 2023 created jobs, tax revenue and a positive economic ripple effect for Indiana’s Clark and Floyd counties. Visitor spending in the two Southern Indiana counties climbed for the third year in a row in 2023.
“When visitors spend their money in SoIN, there’s direct, indirect and induced impacts that keep money circulating through our local community,” said SoIN Tourism Executive Director Jim Epperson. “That money is also supporting our public services and helping to reduce the tax burden on our residents.”
 
Dollars spent by visitors to Clark and Floyd counties serve as a source of tax revenue for the community. In 2023, visitor spending generated $60.3 million in state and local taxes helping to fund essential resources like emergency services, schools, roads and infrastructure improvements.
 
Job Creation
Nearly 6,000 jobs in Clark and Floyd counties were directly related to tourism in 2023, marking the importance of the industry in regional job creation. Tourism also supports jobs in other industries, including Health & Social Services, Professional Services (e.g. accounting, legal and consulting services), Real Estate & Rental and more. Overall, tourism supported 7,291 jobs in 2023, a 5.1 percent increase from 2022, generating $176.5 million in wages.
 
 
About the 2023 Economic Contribution of Tourism in Clark-Floyd Region
Conducted by Rockport Analytics, the 2023 Economic Contribution of Tourism report uses the IMPLAN model (www.implan.com) to measure the direct, indirect, and induced impacts of visitation to the state using data and research collected by nationally recognized tourism research and economic experts. Due to the complexity of the tourism industry, which focuses on visitor spending in multiple categories, 2023 is the most recent and complete set of data on hand.
 
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, Georgetown, 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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River Ridge Economic Impact on Southern Indiana Surpasses $3 Billion in 2024

Annual Analysis Shows $138.2 Million in New Private Investment, Providing Support for over 19,400 Jobs in the Region
Jeffersonville, IN (April 14, 2025) – The River Ridge Development Authority (RRDA) released its economic analysis for 2024, showcasing another landmark year of growth, infrastructure improvements, and community impact. River Ridge Commerce Center continues to serve as an economic engine for Southern Indiana, generating more than $3.04 billion in economic impact and supporting 19,471 regional jobs.
 
“Our commitment to developing River Ridge is ultimately about driving meaningful growth and benefiting Southern Indiana residents,” said Dr. Treva Hodges, Mayor of Charlestown and President of the RRDA Board of Directors. “The investments we make in infrastructure, job creation, and business recruitment are shaping the future of our communities.”
 
One of the more significant developments in 2024 was Meta’s acquisition of a portion of River Ridge’s mega site in the Jeffersonville part of the Commerce Center, spanning over 600 acres. Meta announced an initial investment of $800 million to establish a cutting-edge data center, marking a transformative step in the region’s economic growth. The facility is expected to create approximately 100 permanent operational jobs at an average wage of $36.00 an hour, while continuously generating approximately 1,250 construction jobs throughout its development.
 
River Ridge also remains committed to modernizing infrastructure. In 2024 alone, RRDA invested $6.7 million in new roads and another $8.9 million in improved utilities, ensuring the Commerce Center remains a competitive destination for businesses of all sizes.
 
“These infrastructure improvements are a foundation for future investment,” said Jerry Acy, River Ridge Executive Director. “By prioritizing long-term development, we are ensuring that River Ridge continues to attract world-class companies and high-quality jobs.”
 
Communications Test Design Inc., CTDI, a global leader in engineering, repair, and logistics, expanded its operations into a new facility at the north end of River Ridge in Charlestown. This expansion represents a significant investment in the region, bringing additional job opportunities and reinforcing River Ridge’s reputation as a hub for advanced technology and logistics.
 
Toby Booker, General Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility at CTDI, highlighted the importance of their partnership with the River Ridge Development Authority, stating:
 
“The River Ridge Development Authority continues to provide the resources, expertise, and forward-thinking approach that are critical to the growth of CTDI. Expanding into multiple buildings within River Ridge was a strategic decision driven by its unparalleled infrastructure, seamless logistics, and commitment to sustainability. Their ability to support innovation aligns perfectly with CTDI’s vision for a more connected future. We are proud to grow our partnership with such a dynamic and supportive organization.”
 
Overall, River Ridge had a banner year with private construction investments topping $138.2 million, adding approximately 3.9 million square feet of commercial and industrial space. River Ridge has maintained a high level of activity, drawing 95 requests for proposals and hosting 25 on-site visits from prospective businesses considering the park for future investment.
 
River Ridge’s economic contributions also extend to state and local governments, with business activity generating $49.4 million in tax revenue and wages from these operations and contributing $933.9 million in total labor income.
 
A summary of Policy Analytics’ report for 2024 includes the following highlights:
  • The River Ridge Commerce Center produced $3.04 billion in economic output throughout Southern Indiana.
  • Business activity generated $49.4 million in total tax revenue for state and local entities.
  • Businesses that call River Ridge home expanded their employment footprint to include 19,471 jobs.
    • 12,675 employed individuals onsite; and
    • 6,796 regional jobs supported.
  • RRDA continued to expand infrastructure, providing $6.7 million in new roads and another $8.9 million in improved utilities.
  • Private construction of $138.2 million in 2024 is estimated to bring an additional 3.9 million square feet once completed.
“The success of River Ridge is a success for all of Southern Indiana,” added Acy. “We are building not just an industrial park, but a thriving, dynamic community that offers opportunity for businesses and families alike.”
 
The full 2024 RRDA Annual Report can be accessed at www.riverridgecc.com/annual-report

Mansion 1886 Announces Grand Reopening Under New Ownership

New Albany, IN – Mansion 1886, a beloved historic venue in the heart of New Albany, Indiana, is set to celebrate a new era with its Grand Reopening on April 11, 2024. Under the new ownership of Rick and Libby Stumler, Mansion 1886 has undergone a stunning transformation, restoring and enhancing its timeless charm while elevating the guest experience.

With a deep appreciation for the venue’s history and significance, the Stumlers have invested in key renovations, including a completely refinished Ballroom ceiling, which has brightened and revitalized the space, as well as the addition of a luxurious new bridal suite designed for comfort and elegance. The venue’s landscaping has also been refreshed, enhancing its curb appeal and ensuring a welcoming first impression for guests.

Mansion 1886 has long been a premier destination for weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings, known for its distinctive blend of historic charm and modern sophistication. The recent updates further solidify its reputation as one of the region’s most sought-after event spaces.

To showcase these enhancements, Mansion 1886 will host an open house-style Grand Reopening event on April 11 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the newly renovated space while enjoying:

  • Music from Perfect Pitch Events & Entertainment

  • Appetizers provided by Stumler’s Catering & charcuterie from Shack in the Back BBQ

  • A decadent chocolate fountain experience from Louisville Chocolate Fountain

  • A fun photo booth experience from Flash Fiends

“This venue has always been a gem in our community, and we are honored to continue its legacy while making thoughtful updates to enhance the experience for our clients,” said Rick Stumler, co-owner of Mansion 1886. “We can’t wait to welcome guests and event planners to see the changes for themselves.”

The event is open to engaged couples, corporate planners, non-profit organizations, and the general public looking for an elegant and historic venue to host their upcoming celebrations. While RSVPs are encouraged, they are not required.

RSVP Here – https://bit.ly/MansionReopening 

For more information about the Grand Reopening or to schedule a private tour, visit Mansion1886.com.

Contact:
Megan Jones
Mansion 1886
office@mansion1886.com | 812-850-1184 | mansion1886.com 

Grand Opening of Clarksville Parks and Recreation Soccer Complex

Date: Saturday, April 5
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Clarksville Soccer Complex (Formerly known as Clarksville Softball Complex) – Lapping Park, 961 Potters Ln, Clarksville, IN 47129

CLARKSVILLE, IND. (March 28,2025) – Clarksville Parks & Recreation is proud to announce the Grand Opening of soccer fields at Lapping Park. A special ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. during the grand opening, featuring the Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department, Southern Indiana United (SIU), and town officials. We invite the community to join us on Saturday, April 5, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a celebration filled with soccer, entertainment, and local community spirit.

The opening event will feature:

  • SIU Travel Friendlies: Witness competitive soccer action as travel teams showcase their
  • SIU Rec Games: Support local recreational teams and enjoy a day of spirited
  • Silent Auction: Participate in exciting bids to benefit local causes and
  • Food Trucks: Delight in a variety of local culinary offerings from our community’s favorite
  • Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Join us at 2 m. for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Clarksville Parks and Recreation Department, SIU, and town officials.
  • And MORE!

 

The repurposed softball complex will now be a soccer complex which represents a significant investment in the community’s athletic infrastructure, aiming to support athletes and promote active lifestyles.

“We are excited to repurpose these fields and see them utilized more frequently,” BJ Nelson Lynton said. “This complex will help grow soccer in the Clarksville area and serve as a valuable asset for organizations like Southern Indiana United and the broader community.”

All community members, whether soccer enthusiasts or those simply looking for a fun day out, are encouraged to attend. Bring your friends and family to Lapping Park on April 5 and be part of this exciting new chapter.

Event Details:

  • What: Grand Opening of Clarksville Parks and Recreation Soccer Complex
  • When: Saturday, April 5, 10 m. – 5 p.m.
  • Where: Clarksville Soccer Complex (Formerly known as Clarksville Softball Complex) – Lapping Park, 961 Potters Ln, Clarksville, IN 47129

For more information, contact Clarksville Parks & Recreation at 812-283-5313, info@clarksvilleparks.com, or visit https://siusoccer.com/fieldgrandopening/ We look forward to welcoming the community to our new fields!