Help us make it a reality!

April, 2007

It has been slow going -- sort of like paddling upstream on the Allegheny River during the recent poriods of high flow -- but we continue to move forward on plans for an Oil City Whitewater Recreation Park.

In response to concerns it could not be guaranteed that whitewater park structures in lower OIl Creek would not contribute to potential ice jams and backwater flooding, the committee has turned its attention upstream. The river too remains a possibility, although it represents significant permitting and construction issues because of the presence of endangered freshwater mussels in the area. The committee continues to work with city administrators and council to pursue development of a whitewater park. The current focus is on the upstream area of Oil Creek.

We expected this to be a long and winding process. The journey is just beginning, but we are underway. The committee meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Oil City Library.

January, 2008

The upstream area of Oil Creek has been ruled out, due to both flow and elevation drop issues. Focus has now shifted back to the river, but the city is now pursuing a complete comprehensive waterway plan, which will look at all aspects of the waterfront resources. Safe access to the existing rapids remains a top priority, and is a realistic goal for the near future. Stay tuned for a to-be-announced 2008 paddle-in. There have indeed been many setbacks along the way, but the committee is still alive and well, and full of renewed energy. The vision for a park-and-play whitewater park is still clearly in view.

BACK