Syracuse-Wawasee Trail Committee discussed the Harkless Drive section of the project at Monday night’s meeting.
Megan McClellan, executive director, said this section of the trail is due to be finished on time and under budget. There is an additional stormwater drain that needs to be installed.
There are issues on the section of the trail from Oakwood to The Frog. An issue with a homeowner is being worked out. Gravel will be put in on the right of way only not on the homeowner’s property. Concrete will be located on either side of the owner’s property.
As far as a safety concern, due to a pole, a resolution is being worked out. It’s too expensive to move the pole across the street so other options are being looked at.
In old business, the committee talked about the Conklin Bay portion of the trail. Fundraising is still in the process of being done. The committee received a $25,000 Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau grant. Also, other grants are being sought. An easement is needed from one family. McClellan said she prefers not to have a SR 13 easement. She said she is waiting on permits and possibly INDOT’s input.
The treasurer’s report was given. McClellan said $156,000 has been allocated to certain projects. There is $6,782.11 available in the general fund.
“We don’t spend much outside our budget,” she said.
McClellan said she is looking at new office space. She is currently located in the chamber office but the chamber is moving. Office space is available across the street and would give the committee more exposure.
Committee reports were discussed. Maintenance and signage are needed. A Gator and broom are finished and ready for pick up.
The Earth Day clean up was a great success with nine volunteers. Most of the Syracuse Lake portion was swept or blown clean.
Additional signs were also discussed. The committee discussed additional Syracuse Lake Loop directional signage. The signs would indicate mileage. “I think it’s important to have miles,” said one committee member. “Signage is good,” said another member. The size and the wording were discussed. McClellan will present sign proposals at the next meeting.
Boy Scouts are working on getting their paperwork squared away before starting on the kiosks. The KCCRV approved funding for the kiosks, based on the estimate for materials provided by Lowe’s and based on the design provided by the Scouts. They also approved funding for two bike racks and six on-trail signs directing people to the trail heads.
A boltage tracking system has been ordered. It will be completely paid for by a Safe Routes to School grant.
Upcoming events were talked about. Art Blast is June 27, at Creative Fish Art Gallery. The committee is going to have chalk for sidewalk art.
Tour de Lakes is July 11, at the Syracuse Community Center. “It’s one of biggest fundraisers,” said McClellan. The Mudtastic Classic is June 27.
The May newsletter is out and the other one will be in July. Volunteer of the Month was given to committee member Kay Young.
The next meeting date is at 6 p.m. June 15.