mitigating flood risks, and creating vibrant public spaces.” One key project is Sherburn Park, located in downtown Mount Vernon, which will feature trails, green spaces, and mixed-use facilities. Armstrong highlights the program’s importance: “This initiative reconnects the community with the river, which had been separated by flood protection measures implemented after devastating floods in the 1930s.” Mayor Loehr adds, “The riverfront is one of our most beautiful and underutilized assets. Projects like Sherburn Park will help us realize its full potential.” Christy Powell, Community Development Director, highlights the broader implications of the River Vision Program. “It’s not just about public spaces; it’s about redefining our relationship with the river. This program is an investment in our future as a community,” she states. STRENGTHENING INDUSTRIAL FOUNDATIONS Mount Vernon’s industrial base is a cornerstone of its economy, anchored by major players such as BWXT, SABIC, and the Port of Indiana. These organizations drive economic growth and create a ripple effect, supporting local businesses and attracting complementary industries to the region. The Port of Indiana, for instance, leverages Mount Vernon’s strategic location on key waterways, enabling efficient transportation and trade, while BWXT and SABIC bring cutting-edge technology and innovation to the city’s industrial landscape. “Posey County, where Mount Vernon is located, saw a 9.6% GDP growth between 2022 and 2023, the highest in Indiana,” Armstrong highlights. “This is a robust economy with low unemployment and one of the state’s top five household incomes.” However, Armstrong emphasizes attracting highvalue investments that do not strain the workforce excessively. “We’re focusing on industries like data centers that provide substantial investment without requiring thousands of workers,” he explains. This strategy aligns with Mount Vernon’s broader goals of balancing industrial growth with quality of life. 62 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 01
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