The City of Marion is starting construction on a project to foster more connectivity and healthy activity within the community.
Multi-funded Next Level Trails project, “City Connect,” consists of a new bike trail starting at 10th Street at the Cardinal Greenway trailhead, moving eastbound along 10th Street to Boots Street, northbound to 9th Street, eastbound along 9th Street to Washington Street, then northbound along Washington Street to 7th Street near the Marion Public Library.
The total project cost is $1,828,659.00. The City received funding from the Department of Natural Resources in the amount of $640,684 (a 20% match). In collaborating with Indiana Wesleyan University on a grant application, the City also received funding from the Lilly Endowment in the amount of $548,580.00. The remainder will come from the Marion Redevelopment Commission and the City of Marion.
City Engineering and Planning Director Mike Graft said, “This is the first phase of a bike trail that we hope to continue northward to eventually connect to the Mississinewa Riverwalk.”
In excitement for the project, Mayor Ronald Morrell, Jr. shared the larger picture. “The mission of City Connect is to enhance Marion’s walkability, and thanks to our dedicated partners, we are making significant strides toward our goal. Our investment in the Riverwalk trail over 30 years ago laid the foundation, and this initiative represents a continued expansion of that vision.”
The project is planned to be completed by fall of 2025.
The City of Marion will hold an official groundbreaking on Thursday, March 13th, 2025 at 2pm at the Cardinal Greenway trailhead near 10th and Nebraska Street. All are invited to come and celebrate.
Media Contacts:
Mike Graft: mgraft@cityofmarion.in.gov (City of Marion)
Keenan Davis: keenan.davis@indwes.edu (Lilly Endowment grant collaboration)
Darren Reese: darren.reese@gmail.com (Marion Redevelopment Commission)
