An accessible boardwalk and concrete path to the water’s edge are nearly done, with a flood-resistant restroom and other amenities still to come

Water recreation lovers will soon be able to access the Little Miami River at Bass Island once again thanks to new improvements that are nearing completion. The Bass Island River Access project upgrades will expand recreational opportunities while also reducing uncontrolled river access, which, according to Great Parks of Hamilton County, was contributing to riverbank erosion while negatively impacting local wildlife and habitat.  

The upgrades include an accessible boardwalk, concrete walk to the river’s edge, retaining walls, expanded parking and new vehicle drop-off loop. The site remains closed, however, while other projects are completed, including a new flood-resistant bathroom, benches, a drinking fountain, foot wash station and more. According to Great Parks, the project is planned for completion in winter 2027, although weather and any periods of high water along the river could impact construction timelines. 

Great Parks says that the current total cost of design and construction for the Bass Island River Access is estimated at more than $3 million. The project is partially funded with $294,000 from the State of Ohio Capital Improvements Fund. Additional funding has been provided by August A. Rendigs Jr. and the Helen Rendigs Foundation in support of this project, and Great Parks will provide the remaining funds through its capital project budget. 

This project is just one of the many improvement projects Great Parks is making along the Little Miami Scenic Corridor. Other projects include the third and final phase of the Columbia Connector Trail to link Columbia Township and Mariemont to the Little Miami Scenic Trail and the new 1.5-mile natural surface trail at Avoca Trailhead.