HISTORY
ROJAC, which stands for Redevelop Old Jasper Action Coalition, was an idea cultivated in 2003 through the foresight, enthusiasm and positive attitude of Dave Buehler. Mr. Buehler, along with the ROJAC Board and the City of Jasper, have collaborated to develop the area along the Patoka River at the 3rd Street bridge which will enhance the old part of the City. These developments will be in addition to the Riverwalk, Buehler Plaza and Gazebo, all in an effort to build economic development through tourism. The City of Jasper has agreed to maintain the developments on its property.
ROJAC is a not for profit community organization supported by its annual tax-deductible memberships.
PROJECTS & MAP
http://www.jaspergermanclub.org/map.pdf
ECKERT MILL
The recreated mill will be an educational tool for students, teachers and all visitors. Not only will they see an actual working waterwheel, but also learn about its history and importance to the heritage of Jasper. It will be located on the south side of Patoka River next to the bridge which is the location of the original mill. It will utilize some of the original mill’s corner stones that remained at the site.
TRAIN DEPOT
The new depot is an authentic replica of the former depot and will serve as a visitor’s center. It was completed in August, 2004. Eventually there will be a working railway which may travel to French Lick or Huntingburg.
BRICK BOULEVARD
Residents and visitors will enjoy strolling along the brick boulevard which will connect areas by the river. As the project grows it will be the unifying element to provide both function and beauty along the way.
http://www.jaspergermanclub.org/rojacbricks.htm
TIMELINE
- 2004 – Phase 1 Train Depot, Parking Lot, portion of Pedestrian Boulevard
- 2005 – Phase 2 Eckert Mill with working waterwheel, Central Boulevard, Fountain, Entry Sign
- 2006 – Phase 3 “Spirit of Jasper” train
- 2007 – Phase 3 Portion of Pedestrian Boulevard
- 2008 – Phase 4 Remaining portion of Pedestrian Boulevard
ANNUAL INVESTMENT MEMBERSHIP LEVELS
- FOUNDER – $1000.00
- PIONEER -$500.00
- BLACKSMITH – $250.00
- CABINETMAKER – $100.00
- SHOPKEEPER – $50.00
- SETTLER – $10.00
Checks payable in any amount to ROJAC
Mail your check to:
Jasper Chamber of Commerce
ROJAC
P. O. Box 307
Jasper, IN 47546-0307
“By preserving and restoring a part of our past you are making an investment in your future. If you can imagine it…it can happen….with your support!”
BOARD MEMBERS
Dave Buehler – President
Ken Sternberg – Vice President
Kim Lottes – Secretary
Mayor Terry Seitz
Ken Sendelweck
Ken Schmidt
Jerry Fuhs
Nancy Eckerle
Paul Knies
Bill Schmitt
Ron Flick
Leon Fleck
Mary Mehringer
Bill Kaiser
Jim Siebert
Maureen Braun