German American Bank has joined the growing number of community organizations backing Kimmell Park improvements in Vincennes.Community and Vincennes University officials gathered along the riverfront of Kimmell Park on May 3 as German American Bank officials presented a $10,000 check for major improvements to the 1930’s era riverfront park.
“German American Bank’s commitment to this project and our community is truly remarkable. We are excited about the visible progress that is being made along the riverfront and encouraged by the increased traffic and visitors,” said Phil Rath, vice president of Financial Services and Government Relations for VU. “This is going to be a wonderful place for our community – a place we can all be proud of.”
German American Bank joins other backers of the park improvement project that include VU, the City of Vincennes, Knox County Community Foundation, Vincennes/Knox County Visitors and Tourism Bureau, and Old National Bank.
The goal of the park’s backers is to invest an estimated $2.5 million into Kimmell Park to create an attractive and safe venue for community events as well as a year-round enjoyment of the riverfront for residents and visitors.
Visitors to the park can now enjoy a noticeably enhanced view of the riverfront. Over the past months, VU’s revitalization efforts have included cleaning up the banks of the Wabash and removing the old trees that previously obstructed the view. Visitors can now appreciate the historic sites as far right as the Red Skelton Bridge and as far left as the George Rogers Clark Memorial.
“The partnership of the Vincennes business community, the City of Vincennes, and Vincennes University to revitalize Kimmel Park is a perfect example of effective collaboration to improve the spaces within Vincennes,” states Joel Smith, regional president with German American. “Quality of life and quality of space are crucial areas of focus for economic development to attract students, residents, and young talent to our area. The German American team is proud to make a significant donation to this project and looks forward to enjoying Kimmel Park for many years to come.”
Known as “game-changers” for communities throughout the nation, riverfronts enhance a sense of place and pride, attracting residents and visitors for outdoor recreation, relaxation, and community events. The Kimmell Park Revitalization Project also complements other nearby improvement initiatives, such as the development of the Heritage Trail along the riverfront, as well as Main Street and Second Street revitalizations.
Kimmell Park will help link several major riverfront neighbors: VU, the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, the home of President William Henry Harrison, and the downtown area, which is the site of Indiana’s first Main Street.
From left, Vincennes Mayor Joe Yochum joined Joel Smith, regional president of German American Bank; Phil Rath, vice president of Financial Services and Government Relations for Vincennes University, and Laura Bogard, regional senior vice president of German American Bank, as the bank donated $10,000 for Kimmell Park improvements on Tuesday.