New Albany, Indiana, December 5, 2025
New Albany, Indiana, and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources have settled a lawsuit concerning the Providence Mill Dam. The settlement includes the removal of the dam by year-end, repurposing materials, and plans for a new rock riffle structure to enhance community safety and recreation along Silver Creek. The agreement aims to address safety concerns while preserving historical significance.
New Albany, Indiana, and DNR Settle Lawsuit Over Providence Mill Dam Maintenance
New Albany, Indiana – The City of New Albany and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) have reached a settlement regarding the Providence Mill Dam, ending a prolonged legal dispute over its maintenance and potential removal.
Settlement Details
The agreement stipulates that the Providence Mill Dam will be removed by the end of the year. Materials from the previous emergency maintenance will be repurposed for future water features. Additionally, the city plans to apply for a permit to construct a rock riffle—a rock arch rapids-style structure—to enhance Silver Creek’s safety and aesthetics. All related litigation will be dismissed as part of the settlement.
Background of the Dispute
The Providence Mill Dam, also known as the Glenwood Park Dam, has been a focal point of contention between New Albany and the DNR. In 2021, the River Heritage Conservancy and Ecosystems Connections Institute sought permission to remove the dam, citing safety concerns. The DNR approved the permit in June 2021. However, the City of New Albany, led by Mayor Jeff Gahan, filed a lawsuit in November 2023 to prevent the dam’s removal, emphasizing its historical and recreational significance.
In May 2024, a tragic incident occurred when 14-year-old Andre Edwards Jr. drowned at the dam. Following this, Mayor Gahan authorized emergency maintenance to address safety risks, costing the city over $124,000. This action led to further legal challenges from the DNR, which contended that the maintenance was conducted without proper permits.
Community and Official Reactions
The Floyd County Commissioners have expressed support for the dam’s removal, citing safety concerns and the potential benefits of the Origin Park initiative. They have called on the City of New Albany to drop its lawsuit and allow the removal of the dam. The commissioners emphasized the importance of prioritizing public safety and the development of recreational spaces in the region.
Looking Ahead
The settlement marks a significant resolution to a complex and contentious issue. The removal of the Providence Mill Dam is expected to improve public safety and facilitate the development of recreational opportunities along Silver Creek. The city’s plans for future enhancements, including the rock riffle structure, aim to balance environmental conservation with community engagement.
Key Takeaways
As New Albany moves forward, the community can look forward to safer waterways and enhanced recreational opportunities. The settlement demonstrates the potential for collaborative solutions that address safety and environmental concerns while paving the way for community development. Local business interests should find encouragement in a streamlined approach to projects, fostering an entrepreneurial spirit that enhances New Albany’s position within the Kentucky economy.
FAQs
- What is the Providence Mill Dam?
- The Providence Mill Dam, also known as the Glenwood Park Dam, is a historic structure located on Silver Creek in New Albany, Indiana. It has been a focal point of legal and safety discussions in recent years.
- Why was there a legal dispute over the dam?
- The dispute centered on the potential removal of the dam. In 2021, the River Heritage Conservancy and Ecosystems Connections Institute sought permission to remove the dam due to safety concerns. The City of New Albany, led by Mayor Jeff Gahan, filed a lawsuit in November 2023 to prevent its removal, emphasizing the dam’s historical and recreational significance.
- What led to the emergency maintenance of the dam?
- In May 2024, 14-year-old Andre Edwards Jr. drowned at the dam. In response, Mayor Gahan authorized emergency maintenance to address safety risks, which cost the city over $124,000. This action led to further legal challenges from the DNR, which contended that the maintenance was conducted without proper permits.
- What does the settlement entail?
- The settlement stipulates that the Providence Mill Dam will be removed by the end of the year. Materials from the previous emergency maintenance will be repurposed for future water features. Additionally, the city plans to apply for a permit to construct a rock riffle—a rock arch rapids-style structure—to enhance Silver Creek’s safety and aesthetics. All related litigation will be dismissed as part of the settlement.
- What is the Origin Park initiative?
- The Origin Park initiative is a development project aimed at creating a 600-acre outdoor experience encompassing greenspace, biking trails, and unique access to the region’s waterways. The Floyd County Commissioners have expressed support for this initiative, viewing it as a means to enhance recreational opportunities and public safety in the area.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dam Name | Providence Mill Dam (Glenwood Park Dam) |
| Location | Silver Creek, New Albany, Indiana |
| Settlement Agreement | Dam removal by end of the year; repurpose maintenance materials; apply for rock riffle permit; dismiss related litigation |
| Emergency Maintenance Cost | Over $124,000 |
| Origin Park Initiative | 600-acre development with greenspace, biking trails, and access to waterways |
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