The City of Charlestown will receive $4 million as part of Community Project Funding to help eliminate blight at the city’s maintenance property and build a modern, more functioning facility.
Recently, the U.S. House passed the final Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations package, H.R. 7148 and H.R. 7147, a package that also delivers nearly $7.5 million in Community Project Funding for Indiana’s 9th District, including Charlestown.
“This appropriations package supports the America First agenda by responsibly funding key federal priorities, strengthening our national defense, enhancing border security, and reducing unnecessary federal spending,” said Rep. Erin Houchin. “It also ensures Indiana’s 9th District receives meaningful investments in infrastructure, public safety, and community development. I will continue working to make sure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and that our district’s needs remain a top priority.”
Plans to improve the Hwy 63 and 3 corridors, including addressing Charlestown Landing Road, have been in the planning process for a few years. Part of the improvements include addressing the current maintenance facility at the corner of Patrol Road and Charlestown Landing Road. Used by Charlestown’s sanitation, street, police, snow removal, and maintenance departments, the space also stores many of the Christmas displays.
Of the eight Quonset huts, built during the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant days, nearly all leak water and some lack proper lighting and power.
“The City of Charlestown is thrilled to have the support of Congresswoman Houchin with this critical component of our recovery from the blight left behind after the closing of the Indiana Army Ammunition Plant decades ago,” said Mayor Treva Hodges. “With recent private investments in our city’s gateway corridor, this community project funding provides a welcome federal acknowledgment of the potential for our city’s future and offers us the ability to provide a safe, modern work environment for city staff members who are the heartbeat of our service.”
In August 2024, Mayor Treva Hodges took Houchin on a tour of the maintenance facility and outlined the future of the corridor. The project includes collaboration with the River Ridge Authority and Department of Natural Resources.
In addition to updating the maintenance facility, plans include a redesign of Charlestown Landing Road, adding pedestrian sidewalks, a Fraternal Order of Police site, and allowing for the future relocation of the entrance of Charlestown State Park.
The next step for the City of Charlestown is entering the design phase, followed by a final project estimate and timeline.