04-27-10 City seeks input into Bowman Creek restoration effort

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Office of the Mayor NEWS RELEASE April 27, 2010 3:30 p.m. City seeks input into Bowman Creek restoration effort Contact: Mikki Dobski, Director of Communications & Special Projects, 235-5855 or 876-1564 or Gary Gilot, Director of Public Works, 235-9251 Could Bowman Creek, one of the most environmentally impaired tributaries in the St. Joseph River watershed, become a beautiful greenway that could help revitalize south- side neighborhoods, support economic prosperity and improve quality of life? Bowman Creek originates near the AM General test track along West Chippewa Avenue before winding its way for two miles through southeast South Bend. The creek passes landmarks like Riley High School and the Studebaker Golf Course mostly underground or within enclosed storm sewer pipes until it drains into the St. Joseph River across from the Farmers Market. “Bowman Creek runs dry during droughts, floods during rainstorms, is little valued and often serves as a dump, despite fencing that seeks to control dumping. It is one of the worst places for fish in the St. Joseph River watershed,” said Gary Gilot, director of the City of South Bend’s Department of Public Works. “But we can fix it. Bowman Creek could become an area with attractive mini-parks, hiking trails and wildlife refuges. Fish could thrive where they now barely survive. But we need citizen input and involvement to make it happen.” “South Bend was named Indiana's Green Community of the Year in 2009, and we don't intend to rest on our laurels,” said Mayor Stephen J. Luecke. “I’m enthusiastic that our team is always searching for creative ways to improve City services, enhance quality of life and be a socially responsible advocate for our environment.” City officials have scheduled input sessions April 29 and May 1 at Riley High School as part of developing a five-year strategy for turning a neighborhood liability into an ecological asset. Fliers have been distributed to nearby residents for sessions scheduled from 5:30 to 8:30 Thursday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the school’s cafeteria.