Fundraising for Wright seaplane sculpture hits snag

A group's effort to raise funds for a sculpture commemorating the Wright seaplane testing on the Great Miami River in West Carrollton has stalled.

City officials were open to placing the sculpture at The Point, which splits Central Avenue and Dixie Drive just west of Interstate 75. However, Wright Seaplane Base Inc. officials cancelled an auction to raise the estimated $250,000 needed for the project and they have yet to find a viable alternative.

The Wright seaplane tests occurred along the river in the early 20th century. The testing is commemorated with an historical marker near the river, but WSBI officials say a sculpture would be a visible and fitting tribute.