Posted on November 9, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Prairie Trails Club representatives Steve and Kathy Lucas came before the North Judson Town Council this week to share some details from a workshop they attended.
Kathy Lucas noted that the event they went to was held in Portage but they’re being hosted all across the state.
She told members, “Steve and I attended a workshop this week about trail towns and how you can bring people off of the trails to come to the businesses in town. They had a lot of really good suggestions.”
She added that they’ve been discussing the possibility of forming a group within the area to help bring in businesses.
She stated that the examples used during the workshop referenced small towns that had success with implementing things that helped them with becoming a destination.
She noted that the effort is sponsored through Indiana Greenways Foundation and left an informational flier with Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe.
Showing posts with label Prairie Trails Club. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Prairie Trails Club. Show all posts
Monday, November 11, 2019
Monday, July 29, 2019
Workshops Scheduled for Round Two of Next Level Trails Grant Program
Posted on July 29, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Anyone interested in applying for funds in the second round of the Next Level Trails grant program is encouraged to attend one of the application workshops being held during the month of August.
Governor Eric Holcomb and Indiana Department of Natural Resources Director Cameron Clark recently shared details about the second round of funding, including the dates and times for three workshops.
On Friday, August 9th a workshop will be held at Fort Harrison State Park Inn in Indianapolis. This opportunity will also be offered via webinar.
A workshop will also be held on Tuesday, August 13th at Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell. The final workshop will be held on Tuesday, August 20th at Indiana Dunes State Park in Chesterton.
All of the workshops will begin at 3 p.m. local time. Click the following link for registration information.
Next Level Trails, which will dedicate $90 million of State funds over the life of the program, is the largest infusion of trail funding in state history.
In the first round, seventeen communities and non-profit organizations were awarded a total of $24.9 million for 42 miles of trail development.
Locally, the Prairie Trails Club was awarded a grant totaling $390,750 to extend the Erie Trail by a little over 2 miles.
According to information provided about this round of funding, $25 million will be awarded to regional projects and up to $5 million will go into local projects.
Each component requires a 20 percent project match. While the match can include monetary contributions, it can also include land value and in-kind donations of materials and labor. Projects funded through the program must be open to the public.
The application period for the second round begins October 1st and ends November 1st at 5 p.m. ET. First-round applicants that did not receive funding may re-apply this round. A third-round is anticipated in 2020.
Applicants should review the updated Next Level Trails Application Handbook, as some minor changes have been added for round two.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Anyone interested in applying for funds in the second round of the Next Level Trails grant program is encouraged to attend one of the application workshops being held during the month of August.
Governor Eric Holcomb and Indiana Department of Natural Resources Director Cameron Clark recently shared details about the second round of funding, including the dates and times for three workshops.
On Friday, August 9th a workshop will be held at Fort Harrison State Park Inn in Indianapolis. This opportunity will also be offered via webinar.
A workshop will also be held on Tuesday, August 13th at Spring Mill State Park in Mitchell. The final workshop will be held on Tuesday, August 20th at Indiana Dunes State Park in Chesterton.
All of the workshops will begin at 3 p.m. local time. Click the following link for registration information.
Next Level Trails, which will dedicate $90 million of State funds over the life of the program, is the largest infusion of trail funding in state history.
In the first round, seventeen communities and non-profit organizations were awarded a total of $24.9 million for 42 miles of trail development.
Locally, the Prairie Trails Club was awarded a grant totaling $390,750 to extend the Erie Trail by a little over 2 miles.
According to information provided about this round of funding, $25 million will be awarded to regional projects and up to $5 million will go into local projects.
Each component requires a 20 percent project match. While the match can include monetary contributions, it can also include land value and in-kind donations of materials and labor. Projects funded through the program must be open to the public.
The application period for the second round begins October 1st and ends November 1st at 5 p.m. ET. First-round applicants that did not receive funding may re-apply this round. A third-round is anticipated in 2020.
Applicants should review the updated Next Level Trails Application Handbook, as some minor changes have been added for round two.
Wednesday, May 22, 2019
Starke County Commissioners Approve Resolution on Behalf of PTC
Posted on May 22, 2019
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
In an effort to move forward with plans for the trails system in Starke County, Prairie Trails Club member Steve Lucas presented a resolution for consideration by the Starke County Commissioners Monday night.
The club members are looking modify the American Discovery Trail (ADT) in Starke County to improve public safety. According to Steve Lucas, the modification would take the trail in a safer route off of U.S. 35 and US 421.
“We want to have conversations with the ADT people and if you’re agreeable to the concept of course we’d have Rik Ritzler working with us to what he would be comfortable with, have them both cross at English Lake while the American Discovery Trail could continue on 421 to LaCrosse and go through that way,” stated Lucas.
He said traffic is heavy along U.S. 35 and U.S. 421 so the trail through English Lake would provide a safer, more scenic route for those utilizing the trail.
Lucas hopes that share-the-road signage can be installed to note the routes of the American Discovery Trail, the U.S. Bike Route 35 and the Great American Rail-Trail. The resolution also includes a request to create a design for a trailhead at the intersection of County Road 450 E. and County Road 210 at the south end of Bass Lake where a bench and bike rack could be included.
The commissioners unanimously approved the request to work in cooperation with the Northern Indiana Coordinator of the ADT to modify the route. The Starke County Highway Department plans to assist in putting up signage along the trail.
In addition to this discussion, the commissioners thanked those who worked to get a grant of nearly $400,000 for the addition of two miles on the Erie Trail.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
In an effort to move forward with plans for the trails system in Starke County, Prairie Trails Club member Steve Lucas presented a resolution for consideration by the Starke County Commissioners Monday night.
The club members are looking modify the American Discovery Trail (ADT) in Starke County to improve public safety. According to Steve Lucas, the modification would take the trail in a safer route off of U.S. 35 and US 421.
“We want to have conversations with the ADT people and if you’re agreeable to the concept of course we’d have Rik Ritzler working with us to what he would be comfortable with, have them both cross at English Lake while the American Discovery Trail could continue on 421 to LaCrosse and go through that way,” stated Lucas.
He said traffic is heavy along U.S. 35 and U.S. 421 so the trail through English Lake would provide a safer, more scenic route for those utilizing the trail.
Lucas hopes that share-the-road signage can be installed to note the routes of the American Discovery Trail, the U.S. Bike Route 35 and the Great American Rail-Trail. The resolution also includes a request to create a design for a trailhead at the intersection of County Road 450 E. and County Road 210 at the south end of Bass Lake where a bench and bike rack could be included.
The commissioners unanimously approved the request to work in cooperation with the Northern Indiana Coordinator of the ADT to modify the route. The Starke County Highway Department plans to assist in putting up signage along the trail.
In addition to this discussion, the commissioners thanked those who worked to get a grant of nearly $400,000 for the addition of two miles on the Erie Trail.
Saturday, May 11, 2019
Community-Wide Matching Efforts Help Secure Next Level Funding for Prairie Trails Club
Posted on May 11, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Members of the Prairie Trails Club gathered together Thursday night to celebrate receiving a Next Level Trails grant that’s going to help extend the Erie Trail.
According to officials, the first three-mile segment of the Erie Trail was built in 2008 connecting the Town of North Judson to County Road 100 W. Another segment of a little over six miles was completed in 2010. State and federal funds were utilized for those projects.
Currently, the trail is a little over 9 miles long and extends from the Town of North Judson up to U.S. 35. The planned expansion will add an additional 2 miles that will reach toward Ora.
Prairie Trails Club President Carolla Heilstedt said the Club was incorporated as their own non-profit organization in 2017, which allowed them to start applying for grants on their own. Up to that point, they’d been coordinating with the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum.
The Erie Trail isn’t only for bipeds and bicyclists. A portion of the trail running from County Road 100 W to U.S. 35 has an adjacent sand-based equestrian path, which will be a part of the extended trail as well.
In addition to giving local travelers a safe route to use, the Erie Trail is also a draw for people from all across the country, according to Club President Heilstedt.
She explained, “We have a couple of different coast-to-coast trail lines that we’re a part of; so we’re a part of The American Discovery Trail, which extends from the east to the west coast, U.S. Bike Route 35 and we actually just received word that we were included in a new coast-to-coast trail system called The Great American Rails to Trail System.”
The Next Levels Trails Grant required a local match. Heilstedt mentioned that they never would have been able to secure the funding without the generous help of many.
Specific details about those contributions can be found below.
Key Sources for the Next Level Trails Grant Local Match:
Additionally, it will provide a safer route to Tippecanoe State Park, a forested area with cabins and equestrian camping facilities. The PTC is also working to close the gaps between the existing Panhandle Pathway and the Nickel Plate trails.
Heilstedt mentioned that there is a lot of preliminary work that must be done before any construction efforts can begin on the extension.
She shared, “We’ll have to have permitting, we’ll have to have surveying and just so much engineering and architectural planning submitted to INDOT and DNR for approval before we’ll be able to begin work.”
She added that she’s been coordinating with Territorial Engineers, the firm that assisted with the grant proposal and past work, about what they can do before the funding is in hand. The state is not expected to release the grant money until the end of their fiscal year in July.
Looking ahead, the Prairie Trails Club has more plans for the future.
Heilstedt noted, “We are very interested in expanding, not just the trail, but the opportunities along the trail and one of those opportunities that we’d like to offer the community are learning kiosks.”
She said they would like the kiosks to be digital and interactive. The trail-side devices would allow path-users to learn more about the plants and animals in the surrounding area and the efforts that Prairie Trails Club volunteers take to ensure invasive species are removed so native foliage and fauna can thrive.
Aside from informational kiosks, the organization is also interested in installing bike repair stations intermittently along the trail to help people who hit a snag during their travels.
There will be more grant rounds provided through the DNR’s Next Level Trails program yet this year and Heilstedt noted that officials consistently apply for grants from other sources to help fund future development.
For more information or to get involved with the organization visit PrairieTrailsClub.org.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Members of the Prairie Trails Club gathered together Thursday night to celebrate receiving a Next Level Trails grant that’s going to help extend the Erie Trail.
According to officials, the first three-mile segment of the Erie Trail was built in 2008 connecting the Town of North Judson to County Road 100 W. Another segment of a little over six miles was completed in 2010. State and federal funds were utilized for those projects.
Currently, the trail is a little over 9 miles long and extends from the Town of North Judson up to U.S. 35. The planned expansion will add an additional 2 miles that will reach toward Ora.
Prairie Trails Club President Carolla Heilstedt said the Club was incorporated as their own non-profit organization in 2017, which allowed them to start applying for grants on their own. Up to that point, they’d been coordinating with the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum.
The Erie Trail isn’t only for bipeds and bicyclists. A portion of the trail running from County Road 100 W to U.S. 35 has an adjacent sand-based equestrian path, which will be a part of the extended trail as well.
In addition to giving local travelers a safe route to use, the Erie Trail is also a draw for people from all across the country, according to Club President Heilstedt.
She explained, “We have a couple of different coast-to-coast trail lines that we’re a part of; so we’re a part of The American Discovery Trail, which extends from the east to the west coast, U.S. Bike Route 35 and we actually just received word that we were included in a new coast-to-coast trail system called The Great American Rails to Trail System.”
The Next Levels Trails Grant required a local match. Heilstedt mentioned that they never would have been able to secure the funding without the generous help of many.
Prairie Trails without Next Level extension
Specific details about those contributions can be found below.
Key Sources for the Next Level Trails Grant Local Match:
- Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum: Has played an integral role in the PTC for years; donated the land where the trail is to be extended
- Greenways Foundation: An Indiana organization that promotes green and blue-ways provided a $5,000 grant
- The Luminous Fund: A charitable foundation led by the Carrier family provided a $5,000 grant
- Starke County Community Foundation: The local philanthropic organization donated $5,000
- Starke County Highway Department: With the authorization of the Starke County Commissioners, the Highway Department was permitted to provide up to $5,000 in labor and materials for an in-kind donation
- SCILL Center: built three bike racks that were valued at about $1,000 each
- Kankakee Valley REMC: supplied grant funding for bike rack materials
- Prairie Trails Club:
Club officials shared that this expansion will greatly improve safety by extending the trail past U.S. 35 to reach broad, quiet, rural roads that allow easy connection to the Bass Lake community which has numerous amenities for trail users.
- Provided $5,000 from treasury fund for general construction costs
- Collected plastic bottle caps for the Lids to Benches Program to recycle material into seating for the trail
- Committed to furnishing and coordinating safety and identification signage through partnerships already established with the Highway Department and local signage manufactures
Additionally, it will provide a safer route to Tippecanoe State Park, a forested area with cabins and equestrian camping facilities. The PTC is also working to close the gaps between the existing Panhandle Pathway and the Nickel Plate trails.
Erie Trail including Next Level extension
Heilstedt mentioned that there is a lot of preliminary work that must be done before any construction efforts can begin on the extension.
She shared, “We’ll have to have permitting, we’ll have to have surveying and just so much engineering and architectural planning submitted to INDOT and DNR for approval before we’ll be able to begin work.”
She added that she’s been coordinating with Territorial Engineers, the firm that assisted with the grant proposal and past work, about what they can do before the funding is in hand. The state is not expected to release the grant money until the end of their fiscal year in July.
Looking ahead, the Prairie Trails Club has more plans for the future.
Heilstedt noted, “We are very interested in expanding, not just the trail, but the opportunities along the trail and one of those opportunities that we’d like to offer the community are learning kiosks.”
She said they would like the kiosks to be digital and interactive. The trail-side devices would allow path-users to learn more about the plants and animals in the surrounding area and the efforts that Prairie Trails Club volunteers take to ensure invasive species are removed so native foliage and fauna can thrive.
Aside from informational kiosks, the organization is also interested in installing bike repair stations intermittently along the trail to help people who hit a snag during their travels.
There will be more grant rounds provided through the DNR’s Next Level Trails program yet this year and Heilstedt noted that officials consistently apply for grants from other sources to help fund future development.
For more information or to get involved with the organization visit PrairieTrailsClub.org.
Friday, May 3, 2019
Prairie Trails Club Awarded Over $390,000 for Extension of Erie Trail
Posted on May 3, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Funding has been secured to extend the Erie Trail by a little over 2 miles.
The Prairie Trails Club was awarded a grant totaling $390,750 through the Department of Natural Resources’ Next Level Trails grant program.
The proposed plan that was presented to North Judson Town Council members back in January mentioned extending the trail about 2 miles east from US 35 toward the Pulaski County line.
During that same presentation, it was reported that the Hoosier Valley Railroad museum owns the property where the expansion will take place and they have provided their approval for it to be utilized.
According to program officials, Next Level Trails is the largest infusion of trails funding in state history. In this initial funding round, 17 communities and non-profit organizations were awarded a total of $24.9 million for about 42 miles of new trail development.
In addition to the funds awarded, the 17 recipients collectively contributed $12.5 million in matching value, resulting in a total investment of $37.4 million. The program requires a minimum 20 percent project match, which could include monetary contributions, land value, and in-kind donations of materials and labor.
DNR Director Cameron Clark stated that the additional leverage provided by community partners going above and beyond the program match requirement speaks to the local support these projects have and helps stretch the dollars for more miles of trail.
In an announcement made about the program, Governor Eric Holcomb mentioned that the state’s growing network of trails is more than a recreational and transportation amenity.
He noted that it’s an important tool for economic development by helping Indiana attract and retain the best workforce in the country.
Three rounds of funding are planned and DNR expects to announce the next applications period later this year.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Funding has been secured to extend the Erie Trail by a little over 2 miles.
The Prairie Trails Club was awarded a grant totaling $390,750 through the Department of Natural Resources’ Next Level Trails grant program.
The proposed plan that was presented to North Judson Town Council members back in January mentioned extending the trail about 2 miles east from US 35 toward the Pulaski County line.
During that same presentation, it was reported that the Hoosier Valley Railroad museum owns the property where the expansion will take place and they have provided their approval for it to be utilized.
According to program officials, Next Level Trails is the largest infusion of trails funding in state history. In this initial funding round, 17 communities and non-profit organizations were awarded a total of $24.9 million for about 42 miles of new trail development.
In addition to the funds awarded, the 17 recipients collectively contributed $12.5 million in matching value, resulting in a total investment of $37.4 million. The program requires a minimum 20 percent project match, which could include monetary contributions, land value, and in-kind donations of materials and labor.
DNR Director Cameron Clark stated that the additional leverage provided by community partners going above and beyond the program match requirement speaks to the local support these projects have and helps stretch the dollars for more miles of trail.
In an announcement made about the program, Governor Eric Holcomb mentioned that the state’s growing network of trails is more than a recreational and transportation amenity.
He noted that it’s an important tool for economic development by helping Indiana attract and retain the best workforce in the country.
Three rounds of funding are planned and DNR expects to announce the next applications period later this year.
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Starke County Commissioners Support Prairie Trails Grant Application
Posted on January 30, 2019
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
The Starke County Commissioners will submit a jurisdictional letter of support toward the Prairie Trails Club’s application for the state’s Recreational Trails Grant Program. Governor Holcomb has set aside $90 million in grant funding for walking and biking trails to connect throughout the state.
The club members would like to extend the current trail two miles from U.S. 35 east and south to the Pulaski County line and toward Monterey.
Starke County Economic Development Foundation Executive Director Larry Wickert explained in a previous report that the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum representatives have given their approval to move forward with the project as they own the property involved in the proposed plans.
The grant application is due Feb. 15.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
The Starke County Commissioners will submit a jurisdictional letter of support toward the Prairie Trails Club’s application for the state’s Recreational Trails Grant Program. Governor Holcomb has set aside $90 million in grant funding for walking and biking trails to connect throughout the state.
The club members would like to extend the current trail two miles from U.S. 35 east and south to the Pulaski County line and toward Monterey.
Starke County Economic Development Foundation Executive Director Larry Wickert explained in a previous report that the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum representatives have given their approval to move forward with the project as they own the property involved in the proposed plans.
The grant application is due Feb. 15.
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
NJ Town Council to Compose Letter of Support for Erie Trail Expansion Project
Posted on January 22, 2019
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Prairie Trails Club is looking to apply for a grant to that would help extend the Erie Trail in North Judson.
Starke County Economic Development Foundation Executive Director Larry Wickert informed North Judson Town Council members about the Club’s plans Monday night.
Wickert explained, “They want to extend that trail 2 miles from 35, on East so it would go from North Judson all the way to just about the Pulaski County line, over towards Monterey over there.”
SCEDF Executive Director Wickert told members that the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum owns the associated property and stated that representatives have provided their approval to move ahead with the project.
He added that county officials agreed to supply a jurisdictional approval letter to assist with the efforts.
Wickert asked the town council members if they’d be interested in providing a letter of support, as it would be an advantageous thing for the Prairie Trails Club to have during the grant application process.
He noted that the grant application will be due by Friday, February 15th so he’ll need the letter prior to that date. Council members agreed unanimously to provide the letter of support.
While this expansion does tie into the county’s ongoing Stellar conversations, trail projects are also a big focus at the state level right now. Wickert mentioned that Governor Eric Holcomb has about $90 million set aside for such projects after he realized more connectivity would be beneficial to the state.
“We’ve got a lot of trails around Indiana, but their not connected.” Wickert continued, “He really thinks it would benefit Indiana, not just for our own people but also to an attractive thing for companies who want to move here from other places.”
If there are any other local entities that are interested in submitting a letter of support for the Erie Trail expansion project, contact the SCEDF at 574-772-5627
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
The Prairie Trails Club is looking to apply for a grant to that would help extend the Erie Trail in North Judson.
Starke County Economic Development Foundation Executive Director Larry Wickert informed North Judson Town Council members about the Club’s plans Monday night.
Wickert explained, “They want to extend that trail 2 miles from 35, on East so it would go from North Judson all the way to just about the Pulaski County line, over towards Monterey over there.”
SCEDF Executive Director Wickert told members that the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum owns the associated property and stated that representatives have provided their approval to move ahead with the project.
He added that county officials agreed to supply a jurisdictional approval letter to assist with the efforts.
Wickert asked the town council members if they’d be interested in providing a letter of support, as it would be an advantageous thing for the Prairie Trails Club to have during the grant application process.
He noted that the grant application will be due by Friday, February 15th so he’ll need the letter prior to that date. Council members agreed unanimously to provide the letter of support.
While this expansion does tie into the county’s ongoing Stellar conversations, trail projects are also a big focus at the state level right now. Wickert mentioned that Governor Eric Holcomb has about $90 million set aside for such projects after he realized more connectivity would be beneficial to the state.
“We’ve got a lot of trails around Indiana, but their not connected.” Wickert continued, “He really thinks it would benefit Indiana, not just for our own people but also to an attractive thing for companies who want to move here from other places.”
If there are any other local entities that are interested in submitting a letter of support for the Erie Trail expansion project, contact the SCEDF at 574-772-5627
Monday, August 13, 2018
Signage Installed Around North Judson to Help Guide Trail Travelers
Posted on August 11, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
Bicyclists and pedestrians utilizing the trails in North Judson now have some signage to guide them.
Back in May, Prairie Trails Club Representatives Steve and Kathy Lucas came before Town Council members, requesting permission to place signs around town that would help guide people using the trails. The members unanimously approved the request.
As a reminder, The Erie Trail in North Judson runs a little more than 9 miles and is a part of two major trails that stretch across the whole country. It is included in Indiana’s portion of the U.S. Bike Route 35 that starts in Canada and ends near New Orleans. That trail will eventually reach the Gulf of Mexico. The Erie Trail is also a part of the American Discovery Trail which runs from Delaware to California.
Ever since they received permission, Steve, Kathy and other members of Prairie Trails Club have been coordinating with Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe with Town Superintendent Marshall Horstmann about the ideal places to erect the signs.
On Thursday, August 9th, they put their plans into action, according to Prairie Trails Club rep Peggy Bohac. Bohac also serves as the town photographer and she followed around crews on Thursday and snapped pictures as they put signs up in various places around town.
Multiple people also joined in with Thursday’s excursion around town including Town Superintendent Marshall Horstman and members of his utility crew Kim Kapp and Jason Manns as well as Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe and Steve and Kathy Lucas. The Starke County Community Foundation’s Jessica Martinovic and Miranda Shepherd were also present and so were Nan Wellman and Amanda Brewer from OTES, the company that created the signs.
In addition to alerting travelers that they’re on a specific trail, Bohac noted that these signs will help direct people toward local services on their way through town. She mentioned that since North Judson is the only municipality that travelers pass through between LaPorte and Rochester, it is crucial to let them know where they can find resources in town.
Bohac added that with the initial plans for the US Bike Route 35, it wouldn’t have passed through the heart of North Judson. She stated that back in 2011, the Hoosier Rails to Trails Council recommended a route that would have skirted the northern edge of town. However, Bohac said that Town Council members made a decision in 2012 that led to the route that is there currently in place, which gives better access to commercial and public services in town.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
[Photo Source: NJ Town Photographer Peggy Bohac]
Back in May, Prairie Trails Club Representatives Steve and Kathy Lucas came before Town Council members, requesting permission to place signs around town that would help guide people using the trails. The members unanimously approved the request.
As a reminder, The Erie Trail in North Judson runs a little more than 9 miles and is a part of two major trails that stretch across the whole country. It is included in Indiana’s portion of the U.S. Bike Route 35 that starts in Canada and ends near New Orleans. That trail will eventually reach the Gulf of Mexico. The Erie Trail is also a part of the American Discovery Trail which runs from Delaware to California.
[Photo Source: NJ Town Photographer Peggy Bohac]
On Thursday, August 9th, they put their plans into action, according to Prairie Trails Club rep Peggy Bohac. Bohac also serves as the town photographer and she followed around crews on Thursday and snapped pictures as they put signs up in various places around town.
Multiple people also joined in with Thursday’s excursion around town including Town Superintendent Marshall Horstman and members of his utility crew Kim Kapp and Jason Manns as well as Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe and Steve and Kathy Lucas. The Starke County Community Foundation’s Jessica Martinovic and Miranda Shepherd were also present and so were Nan Wellman and Amanda Brewer from OTES, the company that created the signs.
L to R: James Manns, Peggy Bohac, Kim Kapp
[Photo Source: NJ Town Photographer Peggy Bohac]
In addition to alerting travelers that they’re on a specific trail, Bohac noted that these signs will help direct people toward local services on their way through town. She mentioned that since North Judson is the only municipality that travelers pass through between LaPorte and Rochester, it is crucial to let them know where they can find resources in town.
Bohac added that with the initial plans for the US Bike Route 35, it wouldn’t have passed through the heart of North Judson. She stated that back in 2011, the Hoosier Rails to Trails Council recommended a route that would have skirted the northern edge of town. However, Bohac said that Town Council members made a decision in 2012 that led to the route that is there currently in place, which gives better access to commercial and public services in town.
L to R: Nan Wellman and Amanda Brewer, Kathy and Steve Lucas, Andrew Rowe, Jessica Martinovic and Miranda Shepherd [Photo Source: NJ Town Photographer Peggy Bohac]
Monday, June 18, 2018
Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum Decides Not to Lease Erie Trail to Starke County Park Board
Posted on June 16, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The North Judson Erie Trail will remain under the control of the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum for the foreseeable future. The Starke County Park Board had approached the museum’s leaders about leasing the trail and operating it as a park facility. County officials hoped the lease would help reduce maintenance costs, increase grant opportunities, and encourage volunteers.
But during Tuesday’s park board meeting, President Roger Chaffins said the museum has declined the county’s proposed contract. “Their problem is they don’t want to get hooked up with the county right now because they say they’re working on a five-year plan,” Chaffins said. “Well, okay, that’s what your board wants to do, but myself, I feel that if you were hooked up with the county, it’d be better for your five-year plan. But I’m not arguing with them. That’s what I was told on that.”
The trail lease was first proposed in the park board’s five-year plan. The idea has also gotten the support of volunteers with the Prairie Trails Club.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The North Judson Erie Trail will remain under the control of the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum for the foreseeable future. The Starke County Park Board had approached the museum’s leaders about leasing the trail and operating it as a park facility. County officials hoped the lease would help reduce maintenance costs, increase grant opportunities, and encourage volunteers.
But during Tuesday’s park board meeting, President Roger Chaffins said the museum has declined the county’s proposed contract. “Their problem is they don’t want to get hooked up with the county right now because they say they’re working on a five-year plan,” Chaffins said. “Well, okay, that’s what your board wants to do, but myself, I feel that if you were hooked up with the county, it’d be better for your five-year plan. But I’m not arguing with them. That’s what I was told on that.”
The trail lease was first proposed in the park board’s five-year plan. The idea has also gotten the support of volunteers with the Prairie Trails Club.
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
Friday, April 28, 2017
Take The Erie Trail to Open Sky
Founded in 2010, the Prairie Trails Club, Inc., is a non-profit organization dedicated to develop, manage and maintain the Erie Trail in North Judson and Monterey Indiana.
The North Judson Erie Trail is a free access, public multi-use path and greenway mostly located in southern Starke County, Indiana. Nine miles of paved trail extend eastward from the town of North Judson to U.S. 35 near Bass Lake. A shorter paved section has been completed in the town of Monterey to the east in Pulaski County. Motor vehicles are prohibited. The route is fully paved and intended for hiking and bicycling; a separate, unpaved, equestrian trail for horseback riding shares the corridor from Starke County Road 100 West to U.S. 35.
Centered on the rail banked right-of-way of the former Erie JK Line, much of the North Judson Erie Trail is elevated offering an excellent view of the unspoiled countryside of the Kankakee sand country, and though you’ll see some of the rich farmland for which Indiana is justly famous, the landscapes are often more natural and quite varied — groves of oaks, prairies, and marshlands. The level rail bed makes for easy hiking and cycling.
The North Judson Erie Trail is part of the transcontinental American Discovery Trail, extending from the Atlantic Ocean in Delaware to the Pacific Coast at Point Reyes in northern California.
Rules of the Trail
- The trail is open for everyone's use and enjoyment.
- Closed from dusk to dawn.
- Non-motorized use only - unauthorized motor vehicles prohibited.
- Do not trespass on adjoining property
- Obey stop signs.
- Ride or walk on the right side of the trail.
- Other trail users must yield to pedestrians. Warn trail users as you approach from behind ie: "On your left"
- Helmets recommended
- Take only pictures; leave only footprints - pack out your trash.
- Pets are welcome if kept on a leash and in control.
- Horses are welcome on the designated horse trail. Please do not ride horses on the asphalt.
- Report problems to Starke County Sheriff's Department - 574-772-3771. Use 911 for emergencies.
North Judson Erie Trail, Starke County, Indiana www.prairietrailsclub.org
Dedicated to public access trails and greenways in rural northern Indiana.
Wednesday, April 26, 2017
Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Starke County Commissioners Approve Additional Erie Trail Access
Posted on April 5, 2017
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The volunteer organization that’s responsible for promoting and maintaining the Erie Trail between North Judson and Bass Station has received approval to add more access points to the route.
The Starke County Commissioners Monday approved access points on Range Road, 450 East at the southwest corner of Bass Lake and 600 East, which will connect to the campground. The Prairie Trails Club will purchase the necessary signs and will work with the Starke County Highway Department on their installation.
Eventually a trailhead will be added at Mark Bailey’s Discount Center at the intersection of State Road 10 and Range Road to provide an additional access point for bicycle riders and pedestrians to get on the route.
Both the American Discovery Trail between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and the U.S. Bike Route #35, which will connect Canada to the Gulf of Mexico, will pass through Starke County on the Erie Trail.
Prairie Trails Club President Bruce Fingerhut told the commissioners they hope to connect to Tippecanoe River State Park in Pulaski County at some point. That’s also the goal for the Panhandle Pathway, which currently stops in downtown Winamac. Once that happens, outdoor enthusiasts will have more than 40 miles of paved trail from North Judson to France Park in Cass County.
Part of the Erie Trail is also accessible to equestrians, with an adjacent bridle path from 100 West to U.S. 35. However, horse enthusiasts note there’s not a good place to unload their animals and park their trailers in order to access the route.
Additionally brush, vines and honeysuckle need to be cleared from the path. The Prairie Trails Club plans to schedule a cleanup day later in the spring. Visit http://www.prairietrailsclub.org/ for more information.
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The volunteer organization that’s responsible for promoting and maintaining the Erie Trail between North Judson and Bass Station has received approval to add more access points to the route.
The Starke County Commissioners Monday approved access points on Range Road, 450 East at the southwest corner of Bass Lake and 600 East, which will connect to the campground. The Prairie Trails Club will purchase the necessary signs and will work with the Starke County Highway Department on their installation.
Eventually a trailhead will be added at Mark Bailey’s Discount Center at the intersection of State Road 10 and Range Road to provide an additional access point for bicycle riders and pedestrians to get on the route.
Both the American Discovery Trail between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and the U.S. Bike Route #35, which will connect Canada to the Gulf of Mexico, will pass through Starke County on the Erie Trail.
Prairie Trails Club President Bruce Fingerhut told the commissioners they hope to connect to Tippecanoe River State Park in Pulaski County at some point. That’s also the goal for the Panhandle Pathway, which currently stops in downtown Winamac. Once that happens, outdoor enthusiasts will have more than 40 miles of paved trail from North Judson to France Park in Cass County.
Part of the Erie Trail is also accessible to equestrians, with an adjacent bridle path from 100 West to U.S. 35. However, horse enthusiasts note there’s not a good place to unload their animals and park their trailers in order to access the route.
Additionally brush, vines and honeysuckle need to be cleared from the path. The Prairie Trails Club plans to schedule a cleanup day later in the spring. Visit http://www.prairietrailsclub.org/ for more information.
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Starke County Park Board Unveils Five-Year Plan
Posted on February 15, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Starke County residents got a look at the future of the county’s park facilities Tuesday. Mike Reese with the Troyer Group presented the county’s five-year park plan during Tuesday’s County Park Board meeting.
He said one general goal is simply to raise awareness of the county’s parks. “Most people know of Bass Lake Beach and Campground,” he noted. “A lot of people, we found, did not know of the Starke County Forest, as well as some of the other properties and Yellow River access sites that are even in existence. So developing an awareness, creating a presence on social media because so many people use that now, having a parks Facebook where you can provide updates to people.”
The plan also calls for unifying signage, both to direct people to the county’s parks and also to help them find their way around once they’re there. A programs and activities calendar may be developed, as well.
Several upgrades are also suggested for the individual parks. For the Starke County Forest, the plan recommends improvements to the trails and parking lot, as well as the installation of a picnic pavilion and restrooms. Meanwhile, the North Judson Erie Trail would be taken over by the county, which would work with the Prairie Trails Club to make various upgrades.
The plan also calls for the county to make better use of its Yellow River access sites at Range Road and English Lake. Reese noted that various types of funding are available from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for kayak and canoe launches. Long-range plans call for the improvement of beaches at Koontz Lake.
However, much of Tuesday’s discussion centered around the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. Reese said the first goal is to bring the facility up to code, especially when it comes to ADA compliance. At the same time, the plan also lists several improvements on its longer-range wish list. “Some of the things that came up were improving the curb appeal, adding amenities such as drinking fountains and benches,” he said. “A very important one was improving the beach. The sand is not nearly as nice as it was before, so bringing in more sand and improving the condition of the beach for people to be able to use it. The playgrounds need new equipment.”
One challenge, though, is that the county does not have direct control over the Beach and Campground. Instead, it leases it to Callahan Development, LLC. To what extent Callahan will work with the county to improve the property remains to be seen.
On top of that, Starke County lacks an actual park department or park budget. Reese says that puts a limit on what can be accomplished, “As these properties become improved and there’s more opportunities for the public to use this and the park board’s involvement, actually getting a park department with a staff that would be responsible for maintaining these sites, and they could work to not only operate and manage these sites but work to acquire funding and manage the process of growing the park system.”
Starke County’s five-year park plan must be approved by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for the county to be eligible for DNR grants. The DNR is expected to review a draft of Starke County’s plan this week and provide suggestions. The park board will then consider adopting the final version of the plan in March, before it gets sent back to the DNR in April. If it gets final approval, Starke County will be able to apply for grants later this year.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
Starke County residents got a look at the future of the county’s park facilities Tuesday. Mike Reese with the Troyer Group presented the county’s five-year park plan during Tuesday’s County Park Board meeting.
He said one general goal is simply to raise awareness of the county’s parks. “Most people know of Bass Lake Beach and Campground,” he noted. “A lot of people, we found, did not know of the Starke County Forest, as well as some of the other properties and Yellow River access sites that are even in existence. So developing an awareness, creating a presence on social media because so many people use that now, having a parks Facebook where you can provide updates to people.”
The plan also calls for unifying signage, both to direct people to the county’s parks and also to help them find their way around once they’re there. A programs and activities calendar may be developed, as well.
Several upgrades are also suggested for the individual parks. For the Starke County Forest, the plan recommends improvements to the trails and parking lot, as well as the installation of a picnic pavilion and restrooms. Meanwhile, the North Judson Erie Trail would be taken over by the county, which would work with the Prairie Trails Club to make various upgrades.
The plan also calls for the county to make better use of its Yellow River access sites at Range Road and English Lake. Reese noted that various types of funding are available from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for kayak and canoe launches. Long-range plans call for the improvement of beaches at Koontz Lake.
However, much of Tuesday’s discussion centered around the Bass Lake Beach and Campground. Reese said the first goal is to bring the facility up to code, especially when it comes to ADA compliance. At the same time, the plan also lists several improvements on its longer-range wish list. “Some of the things that came up were improving the curb appeal, adding amenities such as drinking fountains and benches,” he said. “A very important one was improving the beach. The sand is not nearly as nice as it was before, so bringing in more sand and improving the condition of the beach for people to be able to use it. The playgrounds need new equipment.”
One challenge, though, is that the county does not have direct control over the Beach and Campground. Instead, it leases it to Callahan Development, LLC. To what extent Callahan will work with the county to improve the property remains to be seen.
On top of that, Starke County lacks an actual park department or park budget. Reese says that puts a limit on what can be accomplished, “As these properties become improved and there’s more opportunities for the public to use this and the park board’s involvement, actually getting a park department with a staff that would be responsible for maintaining these sites, and they could work to not only operate and manage these sites but work to acquire funding and manage the process of growing the park system.”
Starke County’s five-year park plan must be approved by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for the county to be eligible for DNR grants. The DNR is expected to review a draft of Starke County’s plan this week and provide suggestions. The park board will then consider adopting the final version of the plan in March, before it gets sent back to the DNR in April. If it gets final approval, Starke County will be able to apply for grants later this year.
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