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Kosciusko County Parks and Recreation Board heard from the Tippecanoe Lake Trails during a meeting on Thursday, Sept. 10.
Ryan Drake, board president for Tippecanoe Lake Trails, spoke on the mission to create a trail system around the Tippecanoe Lake area.
“Right now, approximately 22 miles have been identified from the standpoint of how long the trail could potentially be with connection to North Webster,” said Drake. “We have talked to some property owners, trying to make headway with securing funding …”
Drake stated they have a quote for a feasibility study, which will lead to grant opportunities. Some of the opportunities “told us to come back when we’re more established.” He came before the board to ask for a letter of support, while noting they would be competing for funding.
Board member Aggie Sweeney stated she is “impressed with what has been accomplished in a short amount of time.” The board approved to write the letter of support.
Drake noted there is a map for the trail, although it is not “set in stone.” The map “is just a talking point” until they are able to get more of the finer details worked out.
For more information about the Tippecanoe Lake Trails, visit their website at https://www.tippecanoelaketrails.org/.
Updates On Projects
Sweeney told the board that she and Board President Troy Turley have been working with HWC Engineering in a short-term contract to "put together a conceptual design for the proposed improvement to the Chinworth Bridge Park."
The concept packet would be a tool for the board to use for grant requests, such as the Community Amenities Program. The packet gives a monetary amount for the conceptual design along with three alternative concepts and future phases for the park. The board approved the packet and alternate designs, which will then be shared with the county commissioners and council for approval to move forward with fundraising.
Board member Mike Cusick spoke about updates with the Loop in Winona Lake. He met with Winona Lake Town Manager Adam Lohn, who said it is on his radar; however, Winona Lake has a couple different priorities to take care of.
Steve Foegley, with Friends of the Trails, let the board know about part of the trail that goes from the city limits to the park and crosses private property. He asked for Friends of the Trail to be ambassadors when issues or concerns arise between the county, city or any of the private property owners in the area.
Other Business
The Highway Department has taken over the refurbishing of the Chinworth Trail Bridge, and bids will open on Tuesday, Sept. 22. The county commissioners will approve the cost and company during their October meeting.
Sweeney asked for the board to look into a trail use policy for the future trails, and the need for indemnification for use of those trails. The city of Warsaw does not ask for indemnity for use of their trails; however, they recommend that the board look into trail use policies.
The board invites everyone to join the State of the County meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20. at Lincoln Elementary School. The board is looking into handing out fliers with accomplishments, a five-year master plan and what else the board is working on. Foegley asked for there to be a flyer for Friends of the Trails and a sign-up sheet for those interested in joining.
Cusick reminded those in attendance about the upcoming Winona Lake Trail Fest Friday, Sept. 25-27. He remarked “there will be a lot of activities” and live music and food trucks.
The next meeting of the County Parks and Recreation Board will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8.
