A destination for recreation, conservation, and community
Spread across 430 acres on the north shore of the Ohio River in Clarksville, Origin Park is transforming into a regional destination. When completed, it will incorporate trails, community space, whitewater rafting and more.
“It’s an incredible opportunity for us to create a legacy project that will benefit this region for generations to come and to convert previously what I would consider abused land such as brownfields, landfills and junkyards into public parks space.”
– Dennis Schnurbusch II, CEO of River Heritage Conservancy
“It’s an incredible opportunity for us to create a legacy project that will benefit this region for generations to come and to convert previously what I would consider abused land such as brownfields, landfills and junkyards into public parks space,” said Dennis Schnurbusch II, CEO of River Heritage Conservancy.
River Heritage is the parent organization operating its first project — Origin Park. Schnurbusch said it’s also a way to reconnect people to the Ohio River and to the history of the region.
“The historic relevance of this property and the things that happened in and around it is something I think we should all want to help restore and tell that story as well.” He references Mill Creek, the launch site of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the beginning of the Northwest Territory, the Underground Railroad, Buffalo Trace and more —all of which encourage him to restore the property respectfully and in a way that honors its historical significance.
The project, which is subject to funding, will ultimately take $280 million or more to complete, with Schnurbusch saying the best-case scenario would be completion in 10-15 years. “So much of the past 10 years has been spent on the planning process, raising funds, but most importantly on the clean-up process and starting that blank canvas that we can begin building from.”
The team has spent a considerable amount of time with renowned landscape architects to determine activities, pathways and trails, maximize the use of the space and create the best possible experience for guests. The most challenging aspect of the park has been getting the vision out for people to truly understand. While many people think Origin Park is like any other city park, it actually functions like the central park conservancy, using philanthropic dollars, grants and other sources of revenue to build out the park.
There is no long-term taxpayer commitment, meaning the park has to rely on earning revenue in other ways to sustain the park in the long term. One of the ways they plan to do this is through the recently opened event venue The Vista. The venue opened in May and is already growing in reputation.
“Now that we’ve been open and people can see the quality of the building and the offerings we have there, the demand has grown exponentially,” Schnurbusch said. “The future is really bright for that building.” Revenue from The Vista goes right back into maintaining the park. The venue has already hosted a variety of events, including weddings, memorials, fundraising events and even a prom.
Kirstie Adanick, director of sales and events, grew up about five minutes from the venue and said it has been special seeing the space get turned into something usable by everyone.
“Not only can we hold such a large amount, but we are so flexible in what we can host here. This space can be transformed into a beautiful wedding ceremony or be lit up for a corporate event. What makes us different is our ability to transform.”
– Kirstie Adanick
“Not only can we hold such a large amount, but we are so flexible in what we can host here. This space can be transformed into a beautiful wedding ceremony or be lit up for a corporate event,” she said. “What makes us different is our ability to transform.”
Coming from a hospitality and tourism background, Schnurbusch said he has most enjoyed seeing the reaction of people to the changes made within the park. “To see increased usage, the smiles, the interaction … to be able to get that gratification from the change you’re making has been the most rewarding thing for me.”
There are already many ways to engage with the park even at this stage of development. There is Buttonbush Woods — 103 acres of wetlands, trails and Mill Creek; the Ohio River Greenway; and a variety of special event offerings, including bird-watching, Fishing 101, astronomy experiences and more.
“When you talk about quality of life and what it’s like for people to live in a region, parks are almost unanimously in the top three of things you can do for a community to improve quality of life and make it a place you want to stay, raise a family, attract businesses and those types of things.”
– Dennis Schnurbusch II, CEO of River Heritage Conservancy
“When you talk about quality of life and what it’s like for people to live in a region, parks are almost unanimously in the top three of things you can do for a community to improve quality of life and make it a place you want to stay, raise a family, attract businesses and those types of things,” Schnurbusch said.
Origin Park is not just a park but a regional destination. Aside from trails, conservation, community offerings and event space, the park will also be home to Wildwater — a whitewater rafting facility much like the National Whitewater Center in Charlotte, North Carolina.
“This will be a regional hub that will drive 1 million to 1.5 million visitors through Origin Park. That type of activity is terrific for local hotels, restaurants and retailers,” Schnurbusch said. “So, when you talk about the ability to really support a region, improve the quality of life, and be an economic driver, all of those things are really wonderful to piece together.” •
To keep up with this hidden gem, you can follow their Facebook page, check out their website at originpark.org and consider supporting them in their transformation through Give for Good Louisville on Sept. 10.
Story by Darian Decker
Photos by Michelle Hockman
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