Goshen, Elkhart looking for ways to connect trails, part of statewide effort

The plan will catalog bicycle and walking trails in Elkhart and Goshen while identifying ways for the two systems to meet. A report is being prepared this summer by representatives from the two cities and the Michiana Area Council of Governments and is funded by an Indiana State Department of Health grant.

About a dozen people attended the Elkhart meeting, said Adam Fann, TIF infrastructure project supervisor for the city of Elkhart. He said conversation focused on safety and connectivity.

Caitlin Stevens, senior planner with MACOG, said comments gathered at both meetings will be cataloged. Feedback is also being taken online at http://altaprojects.net/elkhart-goshen

The regional plan is taking shape even as a task force is being established to find ways to join bike trails throughout Indiana. The bill, written by Goshen Republican Rep. Wes Culver and recently signed by Gov. Eric Holcomb, creates the Indiana Bicycle Trails Task Force of appointed volunteers.