DAYTON — Local law firm Thompson Hine, LLC announced Tuesday that it will contribute $215,000 toward the RiverScape MetroPark River Run Project, bringing donations overall close to the $4 million goal.

“We’re very close to moving the project forward,” Kristen Wicker, public relations & promotions manager for the Downtown Dayton Partnership said.

The River Run Project is the next phase of development at RiverScape MetroPark.

It’ll remove the hazardous Monument Avenue low dam and replace it with two safe, scenic drops designed for paddling sports.

“Thompson Hine is pleased to contribute to the RiverScape Metro Park River Run Project, which will help reenergize downtown Dayton and spur growth in the region,” Robert M. Curry, partner-in-charge of the firm’s Dayton office, said. “The ultimate success of this project requires strong support from the business community. We are proud to be a part of its development and are looking forward to witnessing its success.”

The law firm, which moved to Austin Landing in October, is committed to projects that benefit the entire region, including downtown Dayton, Curry said.

“We appreciate Thompson Hine’s support, which has moved us one step closer to our fund-raising goal,” said Dr. Mike Ervin, co-chair of the Downtown Dayton Partnership and Greater Downtown Dayton Plan.

The river project has secured a $1 million challenge grant from the James M. Cox Foundation and $200,000 from the Dayton Foundation.

Other donations likely will remain anonymous, Wicker said.

The Downtown Dayton Partnership plans to give an update on the project at its annual meeting at 3:30 p.m. on June 1 at the Engineer’s Club.

Established in 1911, Thompson Hine has offices in Atlanta, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, New York and Washington, D.C.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2362 or josmith@coxohio.com