Richard Vissing (1919-1987) was Jeffersonville’s first full-time Mayor serving five consecutive terms over 20 years between 1964-1983. He was credited for helping to revitalize the city and remembered for his focus on the creation of public park space within the city. 

During his tenure, Mayor Richard Vissing acquired this land from local developer Bob Harris for the creation of River City Park. In 1990, Mayor Dale Orem and the Jeffersonville City Council dedicated this park in his memory by renaming it Richard L. Vissing Park. The park served the city well with wooded areas and park amenities for many years, but became in need of upgrades and improvements. In 2010, Mayor Thomas Galligan began a plan to revitalize the park by relocating the adult softball program from Colston Park. 

In 2011, the Jeffersonville Parks Authority set out to transform the declining park into a vibrant, modern, and desirable destination. This transformation included a multitude of public anemities. Over two-thirds of the park’s 45 acres remain dense forested woodland, creating a protective perimeter, natural buffer and constant opportunity for citizens to connect with nature within the heart of the city.

Richard L. Vissing Park

Richard L. Vissing Park6

Richard L. Vissing Park

Parks & Rec