Montezuma looking to raise funds for new dock along Wabash River

Friday, April 25, 2025 at 6:19 PM

By Johnny McCrory

Knowing how vital the Wabash River is to its community, Montezuma officials are in the midst of a crowdfunding campaign with a goal of raising $25,000 by June 10.

Should the town be able to raise the funds, it will receive a matching grant through the Indiana HOusing and Community Development Authority's CreatINg Places program.

According to Diana Bartlow, Montezuma Park Board President, the addition of the dock will have several positives to the community.

"This dock will allow the community to access the river in a safe manner providing a safe place for family recreation for generations to come. It will also allow first responders easier access to the river in the event of an emergency rescue," Bartlow told The Parke County Post.

The cost of building the new dock will be about $50,000 and the Park Board is seeking the grant, which would be a 50 percent match, Bartlow explained.

"This means the board needs to find matching funds in the amount of $25,000. We are asking for your help. People can easily donate towards this project by visiting PATRONICITY.COM/MONTEZUMAFISHING. In addition, donations can be mailed to Montezuma Park Board, PO Box 413, Montezuma, IN 47862.

The dock is not the only area the Montezuma Park Board is focused on, according to Bartlow.

"The Montezuma Park Board will be resurfacing and updating the tennis/pickleball courts, building a new high school sized basketball court in Aztec Park, updating playground equipment in both parks and beautifying the entrance to the Wabash River Railroad Bridge at the south end of Montezuma. These projects are completed through the support of the Town of Montezuma Town Council, the Reserve Township Trustee, a Creating Places Grant, private donations and the three various fundraisers hosted by the Park Board each year," Bartlow said.