State Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg) made the following statement on the Whitewater Canal Historic Site receiving a grant to help preserve the site:
STATEHOUSE (Jan. 26, 2026) – "I am thrilled to see the Whitewater Canal State Historic site receive these much-needed funds to help restore and preserve this important piece of Indiana history.
"In recent years, I have worked hard with community leaders, citizens and the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites to protect the Whitewater Canal. It is an integral part of the economy of Metamora, bringing in tourism and allowing small businesses to flourish.
"It is great to see that our work paid off, but this is just the beginning. ISMHS still must appear before the Indiana State Budget Committee to request the release of a further $7 million in state allocated funds before work can move forward. If the funds are released, the site could receive $14.4 million, with $400,000 already set aside from ISMHS to work on the site.
"While there is more to do, these funds will go a long way in ensuring this site can be enjoyed for generations to come."
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State Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg) represents Senate District 42, which includes
Decatur, Fayette, Ripley and Rush counties, and portions of Franklin, Jennings and Shelby counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Elijah Roberson, Press Secretary
Elijah.Roberson@iga.in.gov
317-232-9498
