Ep 17: Something About Jeffersonville and AROTR

On this week’s episode of Something Will Happen, Melissa is joined by representatives of Southern Indiana Tourism and the city of Jeffersonville, Indiana. Together, they discuss the story of how AROTR found its home at Big Four Station Park. They go over the history, art, and businesses in the thriving Jeffersonville community and the impact that AROTR has had on the area.

The two cities began a project to convert the Big Four railroad bridge connecting Louisville and Jeffersonville into a pedestrian walkway. The project was completed in 2014. The city of Jeffersonville made the decision to build a park at the base of their side to mirror Louisville’s Waterfront Park; thus, Big Four Station Park was conceived.

The timing of these projects happened to coincide with a contemplation to relocate AROTR. Hearing rumors of this, representatives of Jeffersonville jumped on the chance to show producer Gary Jacob what Southern Indiana had to offer the festival. It became a win for all involved. Gary loved the Big Four Station Park, which became our AROTR home. Its relation to the Louisville Metro area meant that the festival could stay close to the wonderful Louisville fans that had come to the festival. The move officially happened in 2017 and AROTR and the city of Jeffersonville have continued to flourish together. 

Highlighted in this episode are the many experiences the area has to offer in addition to AROTR. Guests coming in for the festival have a plethora of dining and shopping options including Schimpff’s Confectionery. They can take some time to appreciate the murals and public art installations the city has to offer. For those interested in history, the area is home to several interesting museums including the Falls of the Ohio, a Vintage Fire Museum, and the Howard Steamboat Museum.

Also discussed in this episode, is the impact and artwork that partnering with the city of Jeffersonville has provided to AROTR. From writing a message on the peace tree, to taking a walk across the iconic Abbey Road crosswalk, to admiring the beautiful yellow submarine mural on display, the city continues to enhance the experience of AROTR. Guests should be on the lookout this year for the new interactive chalk display encouraging them to leave a mark of their own creativity on the festival!

A big thank you to our guests! 

Paul Northam- Jeffersonville Parks Department

Emily Dippie- City of Jeffersonville Public Art

Mike Atterberry- SoIn Tourism







Producers: Gary Jacob, Melissa Brumm

Editor: Emily Clopton

Theme Music: King Mixer

Learn more:

ENJOY THE SHOW?

 
Melissa Brumm