NORTHUMBERLAND, Pa. — A new riverboat in Northumberland County is one step closer to getting in the water.
Members of the Central Susquehanna Riverboat Society broke ground at the site where the paddlewheel riverboat will be at Pineknotter Park in Northumberland.
"In the fall, this will be a million-dollar view. It will just add to the area, add to the enjoyment of living in this area," said Charles Stroup, a Northumberland borough council member.
The nonprofit group has been trying to bring a riverboat to the West Branch of the Susquehanna River since 2016. Organizers say the boat will be similar to the Hiawatha in Williamsport and the Pride of the Susquehanna in the Harrisburg area.
"What we're looking to do is to bridge the gap between the two paddlewheels and start a paddlewheel trail, if you will," said Angela Troutman of the Central Susquehanna Riverboat Society.
The boat will run when the river's fabridam is inflated, and the water is deep enough. There will be both educational and recreational activities on board.
"Everyone can come and learn about the ecology, the history. Then we'll also have evening cruises, sunset cruises, wing nights, karaoke, bingo," Troutman said.
Organizers believe this will bring the community together.
"They can hook up with the schools for the river education, for stuff for kids to do, positive entertainment for the kids, and just for all the communities, for the older people also," Stroup said.
The group is still trying to raise about $400,000. If you'd like to donate, you can find more information HERE.