The Army Corps of Engineers will be installing a new boat carry in launch at Friedman Park (south of Holliday Park near Riverview Drive and Kessler) as part of the Levee Project. They will also be renovating the existing carry in launch near the Indianapolis Art Center. The projects were part of a deal struck with the Friends of the White River in order to improve access to the White River according to Kevin Hardie, Executive Director of the Friends of the White River. Both projects will be completed by mid-summer.

Also, the Friends have started a new partnership with the Indianapolis Art Center (IAC) to teach teens how to appreciate the White River.

Finally, the group is planning a celebratory event at the end of the summer.

Hardie said they want more eyes and ears focused on the White River.

He noted that the group was as surprised as were many supporters of the Levee Project at the number of old growth Sycamore trees cut down as part of the levee project. No one really knew or foresaw that amount of cutting of the trees which was done quickly to avoid environmental rules regarding the protected Indiana bat which kicked in April 1.

He said plantings are planned to try and improve the look of the de-forested levee project.

For more information, visit www.friendsofthewhiteriver.org.

June 17, 2017: Taste of Broad Ripple, 3pm to 10 pm , Guilford and Westfield Boulevard

June 22, 2017: Outdoor concert, Holliday Park, 7 p.m.

June 23-24, 2017: "24 Foundation" 7pm to pm 24 hour bike or walk event. Register at www.24foundation.org/register/indianapolis

July 6, 2017: Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, Holliday Park

July 20, 2017: Indianapolis Jazz Orchestra, Holliday Park-A Back Home in Indiana Tribute