Middlebury Parks Department's 5-year plan includes new trails, new facilities

The parks department is preparing to submit its five-year plan to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources later this week. The plan makes the department eligible to receive future grants. Manager Tom Enright said that the parks department has received almost $1 million in grant funds over the last 10 years.

The parks department developed the plan by surveying residents. Surveys showed that residents wanted more trails, renovation of existing facilities and construction of new facilities. At Riverbend Park, residents asked for indoor restrooms, a new playground and new trails.

NEW TRAILS

The public’s desire for more trails will be met this year with the development of a half-mile loop trail in Old Mill Park and new trails in Riverbend Park. The parks department received a $180,000 grant through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for the project.