City Of Harrison To Transform Unused Land Into A Beautiful Park

By Travis Thayer The City of Harrison will soon be home to a beautiful new park on the banks of the Whitewater River. Photo courtesy the Harrison, Ohio River Park Project Facebook page. (Harrison, Oh.) – The City of Harrison is in the process of turning an undeveloped piece of land into a beautiful park with access to the Whitewater River. Last Friday, the city started clearing 18 acres of weeds and brush along the banks of the Whitewater River. According to Harrison city councilman Ray Acra, the new park land off of Willow Lane, sits right around the bend from where Morgan’s Raiders invaded Harrison during the Civil War. “I envision a large grassy meadow like environment with large shade trees,” said Acra. “There will be winding trails for walking and bicycles, and a parking lot and benches along the river’s edge for viewing.” Acra, who is spearheading the project, says the city is looking into added fishing access along the Whitewater River, as well as canoe and kayak access. In addition, plans have been made to install a boat ramp for water safety services. Currently, the Harrison Fire Department has a water rescue team, and the city is looking for ways to decrease travel time to people in need in Whitewater Township. “The possibilities are endless,” said Acra. “We are in the early planning phase, but we may tie into the bike trail that runs through Miami Whitewater Forest at some point.” Acra says the park could be used for music and events in the future, but the city is not looking at the park as a place for any organized sports. “This is going to be a fantastic addition to the city,” said Acra. “This will be a park that will be a year round source of entertainment and recreation.” Work has begun to clear 18 acres of weeds and brush where the new park will exist. Photo courtesy the Harrison, Ohio River Park Facebook page. As far as funding goes, the city has owned the park land for decades, which should keep costs at a minimum. Acra says the bulk of what is being done at this point is brush hog mowing and removal of weeds and shrubs. The city also owns 30 additional acres that adjoins the park property, which could be used to expand the park in the future. However, the city’s waste treatment plant currently occupies the land, and the EPA would have to sign off on any additional expansion. A major portion of the park is expected to open in early 2017. For more information, visit the project’s Facebook page.