Major Boost for Lafayette Riverfront: $2.5 Million Cleanup Paves Way for New Green Space
Exciting things are happening along the Wabash River in Greater Lafayette. This year, local officials and the Wabash River Enhancement Corporation announced transformative plans for the riverfront—the stretch north of Tapawingo, south of Sagamore—bringing more parkland, pedestrian bridges, and connected green spaces to our community.
In a major step forward, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently awarded Lafayette a $2.5 million grant to clean up the old Lafayette Paperboard Mill site at 40 Chestnut Street. Once an industrial hub, the mill was shuttered and demolished years ago, leaving behind contamination concerns on this 14-acre riverfront site. Thanks to $2 million from the federal brownfields cleanup grant and an additional $500,000 from the City of Lafayette, the groundwork is set for a safe and vibrant transformation.
Once the cleanup is complete, the area will be woven into a much larger vision—a contiguous riverfront recreation district. This new green space will unite Tapawingo Park, the riverfront, and Happy Hollow into one expansive area for outdoor recreation, gathering, and family fun. Imagine new trails, scenic pedestrian bridges, and lush parkland revitalizing the banks of the Wabash for generations to come.
This project represents a significant leap for outdoor recreation and community life in Greater Lafayette. It will bring fresh energy, increased access to nature, and renewed focus on environmental health right to the heart of the city.
What do you think about these exciting riverfront improvements? Are you looking forward to seeing the new parkland, trails, and bridges? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear from fellow residents passionate about Lafayette’s continued growth and outdoor amenities.