IU PROJECT AT SOUTH BEND WINS CONGRESSIONAL FUNDING

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. -- Strong leadership from Indiana's representatives in Washington has resulted in initial funding for a riverbank stabilization and economic development project at Indiana University South Bend. Area congressional representatives and IU officials plan to lobby next year for the remainder of the project's funding.

Both the House and Senate overwhelmingly approved an energy and water appropriations bill -- expected to be signed by President Clinton -- for a project that will connect the IUSB campus with land that is separated by the St. Joseph River, and in a manner that stabilizes and protects the riverbank environment.

Improvements to the land adjacent to the riverbank will expand fitness and recreation opportunities available to both IUSB students and other South Bend residents. The project is a partnership of Indiana University, the IU South Bend campus, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the City of South Bend.

IU President Myles Brand and IUSB Chancellor Kenneth Perrin praised the efforts of U.S. Rep. Tim Roemer, and Indiana Senators Dan Coats and Richard Lugar. "I'm extremely pleased by their action," said Brand. "We commend and thank them for their hard work and leadership in obtaining the necessary support for these funds, which are so important to the growth of IUSB."

"I'm grateful they saw fit to help IUSB grow to its full potential," said Perrin. "This is a long-time dream finally coming closer to reality."

Brand said the funds will help IUSB "better accommodate the needs of the people of South Bend while providing a top quality education. Easy access between the existing campus and the university-owned site across the river is essential to IUSB's future capability to serve the region."

University officials and congressional representatives said they will continue to lobby for the remainder of the funding next year. Their hope is that the federal government will underwrite about $5 million of the total $7 million estimated cost, with the balance coming from other sources, including the university.

This $7 million project will stabilize the riverbank as it passes through the campus, and restore natural flora along that section, providing additional learning opportunities for students in biology, botany and environmental studies. Other improvements will include a 1,000-foot pedestrian bridge, extension of a multi-use trail, and the installation of power and lighting.

The federal government has already been involved in the project because the St. Joseph, as a navigable river, is the responsibility of the Army Corps of Engineers.

An IUSB soccer field is already in use at the site. Other recreational fields and student housing are also planned.

For more information, contact Ellen K. Mathia, 812-855-0085, or Kevin MacDonald, 219-237-4344.