View across Illinois River where a 32-barge mooring area was proposed. Photo is from the observation tower at Eagle Landing Park near downtown Chillicothe.

By Joyce Blumenshine

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced before Christmas that the Hamm’s Holiday Harbor application for a 32-barge mooring area on the west side of Chillicothe Island and directly across the Illinois River channel from downtown Chillicothe, was withdrawn. Thanks to all HOI members who helped by sending in comments to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding concerns for the proposed barge fleeting facility directly across from Chillicothe.

Observation tower at Eagle Landing Park, Chillicothe.

This is the second time the project application was withdrawn. Hopes are that the project will not return, however, citizens will need to remain vigilant and watch for any further filings that might start this problem all over again.