White River Education and Ecology Center

The White River Vision Plan is a community-driven plan in Hamilton County and Indianapolis that explores the enormous potential of the White River to enhance regional vibrancy, ecological integrity, livability and economic vitality.

A joint effort between the city of Indianapolis and Hamilton County Tourism, Inc., and in partnership with Visit Indy’s philanthropic arm, Tourism Tomorrow Indy, the plan was created to enhance the river’s presence along its 58 miles in the two counties.

The White River Vision Plan looks at regions in a few different ways. First, it divides the White River’s impact area into six ecological “reaches”— areas that share the same river character. It also identifies seven “river anchors.” River anchors are commercial corridors, historic landmarks, and other cultural destinations along the White River with identified site-specific opportunities.

Conner Prairie is in the Meadow Reach, along with Westfield, Carmel, Noblesville, and the Allisonville stretch. Its River Anchor is Allisonville. 

While the White River Vision Plan is a joint effort between the city of Indianapolis and Hamilton County Tourism, Inc. and in partnership with Visit Indy’s philanthropic arm, Tourism Tomorrow Indy.  The Vision Plan would not be possible without the efforts of the other partners: White River Alliance, Friends of the White River, Reconnecting to Our Waterways, and our funding partner the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust.  

Conner Prairie, Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation, and Hamilton County Parks are all community collaborators with the White River Vision Plan.