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.
Dial 811 Before You Dig
Posted on April 5, 2017
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
April is National Safe Digging Month, and NIPSCO officials remind customers and contractors to pick up the phone before they pick up a shovel. A call to 811 at least two days before the start of any digging project will give utility locators time to find and mark buried underground utilities.
Failure to locate lines can result in damage to gas, electric, communications, water and sewer lines, which in turn can lead to serious injuries and service disruptions.
Additionally not calling 811 could result in fines of up to $10,000 along with repair costs for any damages incurred.
NIPSCO officials urge anyone with plans for an outdoor project involving digging to call 811 or enter a request online at www.811NOW.com two business days before the start of any project. The service is always available, but advance notice is required in order to schedule. Avoid staring projects until you’re sure all lines are marked. 811 will read a list of companies that should respond.
If the original planned project is near utility line markings, choose another spot on the property for the project. Also if your planned excavation is within two feet of any marked facility use hand tools for digging. If vacuum excavation must be used, be extremely careful.
Confirm that any contractors you are using have called 811 prior to starting a project. Do not allow them to begin if lines are not marked. NIPSCO officials say it is safe to begin digging carefully around accurately marked areas after a site has been marked.
Visit https://www.nipsco.com/stay-safe/gas-safety/digging-safety-call-811 for more information and safety tips.
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
April is National Safe Digging Month, and NIPSCO officials remind customers and contractors to pick up the phone before they pick up a shovel. A call to 811 at least two days before the start of any digging project will give utility locators time to find and mark buried underground utilities.
Failure to locate lines can result in damage to gas, electric, communications, water and sewer lines, which in turn can lead to serious injuries and service disruptions.
Additionally not calling 811 could result in fines of up to $10,000 along with repair costs for any damages incurred.
NIPSCO officials urge anyone with plans for an outdoor project involving digging to call 811 or enter a request online at www.811NOW.com two business days before the start of any project. The service is always available, but advance notice is required in order to schedule. Avoid staring projects until you’re sure all lines are marked. 811 will read a list of companies that should respond.
If the original planned project is near utility line markings, choose another spot on the property for the project. Also if your planned excavation is within two feet of any marked facility use hand tools for digging. If vacuum excavation must be used, be extremely careful.
Confirm that any contractors you are using have called 811 prior to starting a project. Do not allow them to begin if lines are not marked. NIPSCO officials say it is safe to begin digging carefully around accurately marked areas after a site has been marked.
Visit https://www.nipsco.com/stay-safe/gas-safety/digging-safety-call-811 for more information and safety tips.
Tuesday, April 4, 2017
Starke County Commissioners Consider Truck Route Ordinance
Posted on April 4, 2017
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The Starke County Commissioners have taken a first step towards adopting a truck route ordinance. It restricts routes for vehicles with a gross weight of more than 36,000 pounds to specified county-maintained roads or highways.
Under a proposal offered by Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler, all locations in the county will eventually be within a mile of either a highway or a county road paved with hot mix asphalt which can better withstand the weight of heavy vehicles.
School buses are exempt from the proposed ordinance, as are delivery trucks. Over-the-road truck drivers and farmers who need to access fields within Starke County will be able to purchase annual permits designating which roads they can use.
Fines ranging from $100 for a first offense to $300 for a third or subsequent violation will be levied in an attempt to enforce the policy once it takes effect. Violators may also be liable for the cost of repairs to roadways. County Attorney Marty Lucas says the idea is to encourage compliance rather than generate tickets.
Ritzler sought input from Sheriff Bill Dulin, Starke County Economic Development Foundation Executive Director Charlie Weaver, county government officials and representatives of the farming community.
Farmer Lee Nagai was part of that process. He saw the proposed ordinance for the first time yesterday and asked for more time to review it and discuss its implications with other farmers. He says there’s no guarantee future commissioners will understand the importance of good transportation to the agriculture sector. Nagai also raised concerns about the unspecified permit costs. He told the commissioners he doesn’t mind paying his fair share, but he’s not sure what that is.
The commissioners adopted the proposed ordinance on first reading, which will allow for a public review of the proposal before a final vote is taken. Ritzler will also share the draft ordinance with the advisory group before the next commissioners meeting.
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The Starke County Commissioners have taken a first step towards adopting a truck route ordinance. It restricts routes for vehicles with a gross weight of more than 36,000 pounds to specified county-maintained roads or highways.
Under a proposal offered by Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler, all locations in the county will eventually be within a mile of either a highway or a county road paved with hot mix asphalt which can better withstand the weight of heavy vehicles.
School buses are exempt from the proposed ordinance, as are delivery trucks. Over-the-road truck drivers and farmers who need to access fields within Starke County will be able to purchase annual permits designating which roads they can use.
Fines ranging from $100 for a first offense to $300 for a third or subsequent violation will be levied in an attempt to enforce the policy once it takes effect. Violators may also be liable for the cost of repairs to roadways. County Attorney Marty Lucas says the idea is to encourage compliance rather than generate tickets.
Ritzler sought input from Sheriff Bill Dulin, Starke County Economic Development Foundation Executive Director Charlie Weaver, county government officials and representatives of the farming community.
Farmer Lee Nagai was part of that process. He saw the proposed ordinance for the first time yesterday and asked for more time to review it and discuss its implications with other farmers. He says there’s no guarantee future commissioners will understand the importance of good transportation to the agriculture sector. Nagai also raised concerns about the unspecified permit costs. He told the commissioners he doesn’t mind paying his fair share, but he’s not sure what that is.
The commissioners adopted the proposed ordinance on first reading, which will allow for a public review of the proposal before a final vote is taken. Ritzler will also share the draft ordinance with the advisory group before the next commissioners meeting.
Courthouse and Old Jail Renovations Wrapping Up
Posted on April 4, 2017
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The renovations to the Starke County Courthouse and former jail building in downtown Knox are on schedule and under budget.
Contractors will clean the exterior of both buildings this week with an organic solution to brighten the brick and stone. However the clock tower on the courthouse will be done later this year because a heavy boom lift will be required.
Interior work at both buildings is wrapping up, and various departments are in the process of moving into their new space. The probation department moved into the former jail last week, and the prosecutor’s office will move into the courthouse soon.
A public open house is scheduled Tuesday, April 18 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Starke Circuit Judge Kim Hall will offer remarks during a program on the courthouse lawn, and tours of both buildings will be offered.
Commissioner Kathy Norem wants taxpayers to see how the county is spending money and says the open house will be the only opportunity to see areas that will eventually have restricted access.
The courthouse will have one point of entry once the renovations are finished. Metal detectors will be installed, and uniformed officers will be stationed there as well.
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The renovations to the Starke County Courthouse and former jail building in downtown Knox are on schedule and under budget.
Contractors will clean the exterior of both buildings this week with an organic solution to brighten the brick and stone. However the clock tower on the courthouse will be done later this year because a heavy boom lift will be required.
Interior work at both buildings is wrapping up, and various departments are in the process of moving into their new space. The probation department moved into the former jail last week, and the prosecutor’s office will move into the courthouse soon.
A public open house is scheduled Tuesday, April 18 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Starke Circuit Judge Kim Hall will offer remarks during a program on the courthouse lawn, and tours of both buildings will be offered.
Commissioner Kathy Norem wants taxpayers to see how the county is spending money and says the open house will be the only opportunity to see areas that will eventually have restricted access.
The courthouse will have one point of entry once the renovations are finished. Metal detectors will be installed, and uniformed officers will be stationed there as well.
FEMA Urges Residents to Prepare for Spring Flooding
Posted on April 4, 2017
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
With spring comes the chance of heavy rainfall and flooding, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency says now’s the time to make sure you’re ready.
FEMA officials suggest putting together an emergency supply kit with food, water, first aid supplies, medications, and a battery-operated radio. They also say residents should plan an evacuation route and practice it. Also, designate someone out of state as a “family contact” person and make sure everyone in your family knows that person’s phone number and address.
FEMA also has a few suggestions for protecting your home’s valuables. Conduct a household inventory and keep a record of all major items and valuables. Keep irreplaceable documents like birth certificates and passports in a safe deposit box, and store copies in a safe, dry place. FEMA officials urge residents to consider flood insurance, since homeowner’s insurance policies typically don’t cover floods. They warn not to wait until it’s too late, since policies don’t go into effect until 30 days after application and payment.
More flood safety tips can be found at Ready.gov.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
With spring comes the chance of heavy rainfall and flooding, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency says now’s the time to make sure you’re ready.
FEMA officials suggest putting together an emergency supply kit with food, water, first aid supplies, medications, and a battery-operated radio. They also say residents should plan an evacuation route and practice it. Also, designate someone out of state as a “family contact” person and make sure everyone in your family knows that person’s phone number and address.
FEMA also has a few suggestions for protecting your home’s valuables. Conduct a household inventory and keep a record of all major items and valuables. Keep irreplaceable documents like birth certificates and passports in a safe deposit box, and store copies in a safe, dry place. FEMA officials urge residents to consider flood insurance, since homeowner’s insurance policies typically don’t cover floods. They warn not to wait until it’s too late, since policies don’t go into effect until 30 days after application and payment.
More flood safety tips can be found at Ready.gov.
Be Aware of Construction Workers in Work Zones
Posted on April 4, 2017
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
April marks the beginning of the highway construction season. The Indiana Department of Transportation urges motorists to slow down in construction zones.
This will be a busy road construction season. INDOT will oversee more than 300 construction contracts totaling more than $1 billion in capital investment. Pavement resurfacing will encompass 3,047 miles. Work will focus on improving traffic mobility and safety. Dozens of interchanges and intersections will be improved across the state. INDOT and its contractors will also rehabilitate or construct 486 bridges and small structures.
Since 2014, at least 12 people are killed each year in INDOT work zone crashes. Eighty percent of those killed are motorists or their passengers.
With this being Work Zone Awareness week, INDOT officials urge motorists to look for signs for reduced speed limits and narrow driving lanes and highway workers. Merge early. If drivers merge as soon as they see signs, traffic will flow much more smoothly. Maintain a safe distance on all sides of the vehicle and adhere to posted speed limits. Drivers should minimize distractions and plan ahead. Expect travel delays during construction season and allow extra travel time.
For an interactive online map to keep up to date on current road construction projects, click on this link for more details.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
April marks the beginning of the highway construction season. The Indiana Department of Transportation urges motorists to slow down in construction zones.
This will be a busy road construction season. INDOT will oversee more than 300 construction contracts totaling more than $1 billion in capital investment. Pavement resurfacing will encompass 3,047 miles. Work will focus on improving traffic mobility and safety. Dozens of interchanges and intersections will be improved across the state. INDOT and its contractors will also rehabilitate or construct 486 bridges and small structures.
Since 2014, at least 12 people are killed each year in INDOT work zone crashes. Eighty percent of those killed are motorists or their passengers.
With this being Work Zone Awareness week, INDOT officials urge motorists to look for signs for reduced speed limits and narrow driving lanes and highway workers. Merge early. If drivers merge as soon as they see signs, traffic will flow much more smoothly. Maintain a safe distance on all sides of the vehicle and adhere to posted speed limits. Drivers should minimize distractions and plan ahead. Expect travel delays during construction season and allow extra travel time.
For an interactive online map to keep up to date on current road construction projects, click on this link for more details.
Monday, April 3, 2017
Starke County Chamber Executive Director Announces Departure
Posted on April 3, 2017
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The Starke County Chamber of Commerce will soon have a new executive director. Debbie Mix is leaving after seven years in that position to pursue a new career opportunity.
In a letter to chamber members, Mix says Friday, April 7 will be her last day. She adds she appreciates living in Starke County and knowing all the wonderful people and places that make this such a great place to live.
Starke County Chamber of Commerce President Jerry Gurrado praises Mix for her work in transitioning the chamber into a county entity, expanding membership and being the face of the organization.
“On behalf of every Chamber member and Board of Directors member, I wish to thank Debbie for her dedication and service,” Gurrado added.
He says the next executive director will need to “wear a variety of hats.” In addition to conducing day-to-day chamber of commerce operations, he or she will spend nine hours per week working to expand tourism in Starke County.
Gurrado adds experience in a nonprofit is desired but not necessary. The chamber is looking for a people person who believes in the mission of serving the entire county. He says a working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel are critical and a general knowledge of QuickBooks is necessary.
Board members will conduct essential chamber services until a new executive director can be hired. Gurrado says the board will strive to find just the right person rather than hurrying the selection process just to fill the spot.
Applicants can email a resume to jgurrado@scill.biz.
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The Starke County Chamber of Commerce will soon have a new executive director. Debbie Mix is leaving after seven years in that position to pursue a new career opportunity.
In a letter to chamber members, Mix says Friday, April 7 will be her last day. She adds she appreciates living in Starke County and knowing all the wonderful people and places that make this such a great place to live.
Starke County Chamber of Commerce President Jerry Gurrado praises Mix for her work in transitioning the chamber into a county entity, expanding membership and being the face of the organization.
“On behalf of every Chamber member and Board of Directors member, I wish to thank Debbie for her dedication and service,” Gurrado added.
He says the next executive director will need to “wear a variety of hats.” In addition to conducing day-to-day chamber of commerce operations, he or she will spend nine hours per week working to expand tourism in Starke County.
Gurrado adds experience in a nonprofit is desired but not necessary. The chamber is looking for a people person who believes in the mission of serving the entire county. He says a working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel are critical and a general knowledge of QuickBooks is necessary.
Board members will conduct essential chamber services until a new executive director can be hired. Gurrado says the board will strive to find just the right person rather than hurrying the selection process just to fill the spot.
Applicants can email a resume to jgurrado@scill.biz.
INDOT Bridge Projects to Affect Area Highways
Posted on April 3, 2017
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The Indiana Department of Transportation will close State Road 14 halfway between State Road 39 and U.S. 421 next week for a bridge repair project.
Crews are rehabilitating the bridge deck over the Monon Ditch and resurfacing it. The bridge will be closed to all traffic from Monday, April 10 through the end of October.
State road detours must be along state-maintained roadways. INDOT’s marked detour will use State Road 10 to get around the work.
INDOT will also begin work on the State Road 16/39 bridge over the Tippecanoe River in Buffalo on Monday, April 10. That project will also continue through the end of October.
The highway in White County will be open to all through traffic during that project but will be restricted to one lane in both directions. Motorists should expect periodic delays and allow extra time to travel through the Buffalo area. INDOT urges motorists to pay close attention to signs in the work zone, obey the posted speed limits and be on the alert for workers and equipment.
Drivers can monitor road closures and traffic alerts at any time via the INDOT Northwest District social media channels: www.Facebook.com/INDOTNorthwest or Twitter @INDOTNorthwest. Or visit http://www.trafficwise.in.gov for INDOT’s TrafficWise Traveler Information Service.
Author Mary Perren, WKVI
The Indiana Department of Transportation will close State Road 14 halfway between State Road 39 and U.S. 421 next week for a bridge repair project.
Crews are rehabilitating the bridge deck over the Monon Ditch and resurfacing it. The bridge will be closed to all traffic from Monday, April 10 through the end of October.
State road detours must be along state-maintained roadways. INDOT’s marked detour will use State Road 10 to get around the work.
INDOT will also begin work on the State Road 16/39 bridge over the Tippecanoe River in Buffalo on Monday, April 10. That project will also continue through the end of October.
The highway in White County will be open to all through traffic during that project but will be restricted to one lane in both directions. Motorists should expect periodic delays and allow extra time to travel through the Buffalo area. INDOT urges motorists to pay close attention to signs in the work zone, obey the posted speed limits and be on the alert for workers and equipment.
Drivers can monitor road closures and traffic alerts at any time via the INDOT Northwest District social media channels: www.Facebook.com/INDOTNorthwest or Twitter @INDOTNorthwest. Or visit http://www.trafficwise.in.gov for INDOT’s TrafficWise Traveler Information Service.
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