$816K RAISE Grant Awarded to Michiana Area Council of Governments
Thanks to the generous $186,800 Department of Transportation RAISE award, the Michiana Area Council of Governments (MACOG) is undertaking a transformative planning initiative: the Mishawaka to Elkhart Trail project. This initiative aims to bridge an 11-mile gap in the Crossway Trails network, connecting the Riverwalk Trail in Mishawaka to the Elkhart Riverwalk. Once completed, this project will create an uninterrupted, approximately 58-mile multi-use trail that will significantly enhance the region's transportation infrastructure, safety, and environmental sustainability.
This planning project will develop a comprehensive strategy to construct a multi-use trail across an 11-mile gap in the Crossway Trails. The scope of the planning activities includes:
Public Engagement: Ensuring community involvement and input throughout the planning process.
Alternatives Analysis: Evaluating various trail alignments and designs.
Preferred Alignment: Identifying the best route for the trail.
Implementation and Funding: Developing strategies to fund and execute the project.
Design: Completing up to 30 percent of the design work on priority segments.
Additionally, the project will evaluate the integration of electric vehicle charging stations and bike-share docking stations at trailheads, as well as connections to existing transit networks.
The dedicated bicycle and pedestrian facilities will greatly enhance the safety of non-motorized users in an area currently dominated by vehicular traffic. By creating separate pathways for cyclists and pedestrians, the project will reduce potential conflict zones between vehicles and vulnerable road users, ultimately improving safety for all.
One of the significant benefits of completing the Mishawaka to Elkhart Trail is the potential for a mode shift from vehicle to bicycle trips. This shift is anticipated to lead to a reduction in transportation-related emissions, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment in a heavily traveled corridor.
The new trail will increase access to the region's parks, which have recently seen substantial investments. With the introduction of bike-share docking stations, residents and visitors will have more options for recreational and commuter transportation. The project also aims to enhance "last mile" connections to the existing transit network, making it easier for people to use public transportation for their daily commutes.
The Mishawaka to Elkhart Trail planning project is particularly significant for areas designated as persistent poverty or historically disadvantaged communities. By improving transportation infrastructure and increasing access to parks and public spaces, this project will provide numerous social, economic, and health benefits to these communities. It will promote greater inclusivity and equitable access to resources and opportunities.
The Mishawaka to Elkhart Trail project is a crucial step toward creating a safer, more sustainable, and interconnected transportation network in the Michiana region. With the support of the RAISE grant and the engagement of local communities, this planning initiative will lay the groundwork for a transformative project that benefits residents, visitors, and the environment alike. We look forward to the collaborative efforts that will bring this vision to life and create a lasting positive impact on our region.
