(Metamora, IN) – The full $14.4 million needed to restore the Whitewater Canal State Historic Site in Metamora is secured, following years of advocacy and fundraising.
To mark this milestone, community members, local leaders and historic preservation supporters gathered at the site Monday evening to learn more about the future of the landmark.
Indiana State Museum staff was on hand to unveil a map illustrating restoration plans (pictured)
These include stabilizing historic structures such as the grist mill; restoring locks and the aqueduct; rehabilitating the canal bed, and bringing back canal boat rides.
Local state lawmakers Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg) and representatives Lindsay Patterson (R-Brookville) and Alex Zimmerman (R-North Vernon) spoke to the crowd.
The Indiana State Budget Committee released the funds in April.
Of the total amount, $7 million comes from the 2023 General Fund; another $460,000 comes out of the State Construction Fund, and the remaining $7 million is from the Lilly Foundation through READI 2.0.
A start date for construction hasn’t been determined.
