Wa-Nee Visionary Trail Project
Our Mission
To build a safe, accessible, and vibrant trail for walkers, runners, and cyclists that connects the communities of Nappanee and Wakarusa. This trail will link downtowns, schools, and neighborhoods to each other, and immerse us in the countryside we all know and love.
Comprehensive plans from both Nappanee and Wakarusa include the vision of a multi-use path connecting the two communities. This visionary trail is a product of many rounds of public input and we’re beginning the process of bringing this vision to life. In this early phase, Connect in Elkhart County is working alongside the City of Nappanee and the Town of Wakarusa to create public awareness and to inspire community feedback, involvement, and leadership.
Project Boundaries
Share Yours Thoughts with us!
The Community Foundation of Elkhart County is currently leading an initiative to develop a Wa-Nee Nonmotorized Connection Plan through the Connect in Elkhart County program. The purpose of this survey is to document your community’s level of interest in and support for developing safe transportation options for bicyclists, walkers, and buggies between Wakarusa and Nappanee. Please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/wanee-connections to complete this survey online. Paper copies can also be picked up and dropped off at the following locations:
Nappanee City Hall (300 W. Lincoln Street)
Nappanee Public Library (157 North Main St)
Wakarusa Town Hall (100 W Waterford St)
Wakarusa Public Library (124 North Elkhart St)
Watch this website for upcoming meetings and workshops related to the Wa-Nee Nonmotorized Connection Plan
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the goals of this project?
A: To build a safe, accessible, and vibrant trail for walkers, runners, and cyclists that connects the communities of Nappanee and Wakarusa. This trail will link downtowns, schools, and neighborhoods to each other, and immerse us in the countryside we all know and love.
Q: Why now?
A: There is growing demand from the community. Comprehensive plans from both Nappanee and Wakarusa include the vision of a multi-use path connecting the two communities. This visionary trail is a product of many rounds of public input, and we’re beginning the process of bringing this vision to life.
Q: When can we expect the trail to be constructed?
A: Community support will directly influence the project’s timeline. Trail projects are constructed in multiple stages which include choosing a route, planning and engineering, land aquisition and contracts and fundraising. The complexity of the route and sources of funding can greatly impact the length of each phase. Trails like this can take up to 10 years to complete. But with your help, this project could be completed much sooner!
Q: How long will the trail be?
A: The trail will be approximately six miles long.
Q: How will you get the land for this project?
A: With the voluntary partnership of local landowners there is the potential for this trail to resemble other nature trails in the region. In the absence of supporting landowner partners, existing rights-of-way could be used.
Q: What types of users will this trail accommodate?
A: Ten feet wide multi-use trails comfortably allow for users of all types, including runners, walkers, cyclists, skateboarders, and rollerbladers.
Q: Who will be responsible for the trail’s maintenance?
A: There are various ways to successfully maintain a trail network with multiple municipal and private partners. Determining the best structure will depend on the community’s input and needs.
Q: How will you address crossings on S.R. 19?
A: There are many different approaches to designing safe crossings and will plan to work closely with the State to ensure the best design is pursued to address the community’s concerns.
Q: How can I get involved or provide feedback?
In the survey below you’ll find space for feedback and ideas, as well as various opportunities for volunteerism and involvement.
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