On August 21, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources inspected and approved in North Judson a one mile extension of the Erie Trail and new Grand Kankakee Marsh Trail.  These trails are host to the transAmerican Great American Rail-Trail, American Discovery Trail, and USBR 35.  The extension was made through a DNR competitive grant sought by the Prairie Trails Club with support of its donors and members.

 

On the same day, there was public recognition of the  Town of North Judson as an official “Trail Town” by the American Discovery Trail Society.  Despite threatening skies and a little rain, there was a great turnout for a celebration of these events.  

 

Mitch Barloga, a member of the American Discovery Trail’s Board of Directors, presented the designation to North Judson Clerk-Treasurer, Andrew Rowe.  Andrew had documented support for the “Trail Town” designation.  North Judson is the fourth town to be honored in the nation and the first in Indiana. 

 

Dale Brier, DNR Deputy Director of Community Grants and Trails, explained the agency’s mission to develop nonmotorized trails for healthy living and outdoor recreation.  He congratulated the Prairie Trails Club and the Town.

 

Jacque Ryan spoke on behalf of the Starke County Community Foundation thanking the ADT Society and congratulating the Town and Prairie Trails Club.

   

Festivities included music by Return to Normal and refreshments.  Briar Ballas unveiled one of two bike racks for the trail extension made by him and other Knox student welders.  The event was concluded with a ribbon cutting ceremony.