Granger Path Project

5K RUN/WALK RESULTS HERE!

The results of the 5K run/walk are finally in.  Click below to view:

overall results for the run

overall results for the walk

results by category for the run

results by category for the walk

Check back later for more coverage of the weekend's great event.

South Bend Tribune Editorial

The South Bend Tribune has added its voice to ours in supporting community pathways in Granger.

Recreation trails lead to more engaged, healthier communities. They make good use of natural assets and enhance quality of life.
[. . .]
The Granger residents at the heart of the Granger Path Project are to be commended for recognizing the importance of tying their community together with a recreational asset. The aim is to connect libraries, parks, churches and other gathering places with a biking/hiking path.

It's wonderful to read about this support for our project.  You can read the whole editorial by clicking here.

If you haven't planned to already, consider supporting us by registering for the 5K Walk/Run on May 21.  Hope to see you all there!

April Meeting Notes

Greetings Neighbors!  I don't know how many of you woke up this morning feeling that you just needed to RUN, but if you did you might have been simpatico with our 5k Run/Walk coordinator, Andy McGrail, who ran the Boston Marathon this morning!

Hard to imagine, but the 5k is a little more than month away (May 21, at 9:00 am). If you have not had a chance to send in your registration form please do so as soon as possible. We'd like all of our long-time supporters to be there. We have been fortunate to receive some great coverage from both the Granger Gazette and the South Bend Tribune but a large turnout would speak volumes to our community.
WE NEED YOU TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN!

Speaking of making the event happen, we'd like to thank the following groups and businesses for aiding in the cause:
•       Good Shepherd United Methodist Church whose congregation is opening up their bathrooms and parking lot for race participants along with volunteering race day!
•        Memorial Hospital who has been supportive from the beginning
•       Lake City Bank, TCU Investment Services
•       Morris Animal Hospital who will be there with goodie bags for some lucky pets
•       Down To Earth promoting healthy eating
•       Penn HS Student Council who want to invest in their community
•       Eddie's Steak Shed
•       Harris Township Library who is also opening up their bathrooms and lawn for a staging area
•       Elkhart Career Center who is turning out some awesome awards
•       Fox Chase subdivision residents for allowing us to go through their community

And then there are the fun donations including: Granger Florist–providing a rose for women finishers; Dairy Queen Gift Certificates for the first 120 children; Nordic Track backpacks; golf for 4 from Juday Creek; and a dinner for 2 from Knollwood; Fun Tan; House of Bicycles-tune up for a bike; Pinnacle Athletic will be there to give massages, and that is just a few of our sponsors.

Check out the article in today's South Bend Tribune about the event "Trails point way to better community".

For a registration form click here.  And if you have any questions about group rates contact Andy at:243-1452 or email us at:
grangerpaths@gmail.com

See you on the 21rst of May!

Meeting Notes - October 4

Hello Neighbors,

Mark your calendars for our next meeting, NOVEMBER 1st @ 6:30 p.m., at the Harris Library.  As you will see by these notes, there are lots of great things occurring in our group and we'd love to have your feedback and energy.  let us know what you can do and we'll be sure to contact you.

For example, we are starting to plan for our first fundraising run/walk, Or is you have less time , but have the knowledge to assist with our web site, we could use you too.  And then there is the needed funding for this project--any dollar amount would be put to good use.  You can make donations to GBA, Attention:  Granger Paths, P.O. Box 427, Granger, IN 46530.

BALL STATE FEEDBACK

We have received many positive comments on the plan submitted to us by the Ball State Graduate students.  Committee members voiced their approval on changing Phase One of the project to incorporate more of the "downtown area" and out to the community softball fields.  Members felt that this change will work well when reapplying to TE funding and will be more inclusive of many more neighborhoods.

If you know of any specifics you would like to see included, please contact use at:  grangerpaths@gmail.com.

Because the map provided by the BSU group was vague, we will need to go over the plan with a fine tooth comb before submitting changes to MACOG.

TE FUNDING

TE funding forms are due to the public by the end of October.  There will be a Trail Funding Workshop October 25the, 8:40 - 4:30 in Portage, IN.  If you are interested in helping to write grants, please contact Barbara at:  grangerpaths@gmail.com.

FUNDRAISER EVENT

Thanks to Andy McGrail, we are beginning to start planning our first annual GRANGER PATH RUN.  The planning of this event is bound to be fun and will bring more attention to this project.  You can contact Andy at:  macruns26@aol.com or grangerpaths@gmail.com.

FINANCES

The Ball State bill for travel was $269.12.  Anyone who would like to pitch in for these costs, please sent a check to GBA:  Attention:  Granger Paths, P.O. Box 427, Granger, IN 46530.

HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATION VISITS

If anyone knows of an upcoming Homeowners' Association meeting, we'd love to come and do a presentation of this project.  Contact us at:  grangerpaths@gmail.com or cal 243-1747

Thanks for your continued interest and support!

Meeting Notes - September 19

THE NEXT MEETING IS TUESDAY OCTOBER 4TH, 6:30 AT THE HARRIS COMMUNITY LIBRARY

Our next meeting will be a brainstorming meeting to go over the recommendations given by the Ball State Architectural Graduate group.  Please try to attend to give your input.  The booklet that was provided by the group can be found by clicking on the following link:

Download ball_state_proposal.pdf

If you cannot attend but would like to voice an opinion, please feel free to contact us at:  grangerpaths@gmail.com.

Those who attended the meeting September 19th left with great information as to how the multiuse trail could connect and enhance our area and were also reminded of the great asset we have in the members of the community.

Conclusions of the Ball State Architectural visit:  Below is a short report of some of the recommendations that were formed by the BSU team.  They have also provided us with a booklet, which is available by clicking on the above link.

• Change the areas originally encompassed in the plan.  For example, Phase 1 would now run along Adams Road from Elm Road to the abandoned railroad tracks, just past Bittersweet Road, connecting to Anderson Road, then turning westward towards the baseball diamond on Brick Road, reconnecting with the Elm Road sections (6 miles of multiuse trail, connecting shopping, recreation, schools, library and historic sites).
• Make all phases loops, so there are not only destinations to get to, but also ensuring that none of the trail requires that users traverse the same section on one use.
• Identify open spaces and work with the community and developers to guarantee community access.
• Work with developers to make strip malls and developments friendlier to the community.

These are just some of the highlights of the recommendations and we hope that you will take the time to review the entire presentation (link above).

BALL STATE VISIT - August 29

Seven graduate students and their professor, German Cruz, visited the area August 29th and 30th.  They spent Monday afternoon touring the area, led by Gary Babcoke, Barbara Fredman and Jennifer Velasco.  They also met with interested community members on Monday evening.

Following their visit, they will spend the next two weeks working on a plan, using the information they gathered on their visit as well as information provided by Tom Jordan, Andy McGrail, Eileen Connelly, and Dale Devon.  Their goal is to provide the community with information and tools that will help to facilitate this project.

PLEASE JOIN US ON SEPTEMBER 19TH @ 6:30 IN THE LIBRARY TO SEE THEIR PLAN!!!

Meeting Notes - August 2

HEADS UP!!!  NEXT MEETING:  SEPTEMBER 6TH @ 6:30 AT THE LIBRARY

We had five new folks join us for out meeting:  three from Partridge Woods, and one each from Homestead and Terry Brook Estates.  Thanks and we look forward to seeing you again.

TE FUNDING

We were disappointed to learn that we did not receive funding in the TE cycle.  While the feedback from MACOG indicated the proposal was well done, monies were awarded this cycle based upon historical significance and economic development that the project would bring to the community.  Path member Gary Babcoke felt that we should continue forward with the project and indicated that the project that was developed in lake County took some time to get off the ground.  Path members voted to continue and pointed out several historical areas and areas that could be linked to economic development.  While we didn't receive funding this time, TE funding has been approved by the federal government for the next year!!  Thanks to all of you who took the time to call or write our elected officials.  Don't forget that Indiana has long been a state that contributed more than it has been awarded (or applied for)!!!  Janine A. has offered to assist with writing the new proposal which will be available to us October 1st of this year.  We'd also like to thank Karen Macoviak at MACOG for all her assistance with the last proposal and look forward to working with Cory Hull in the future.

BALL STATE VISIT

As of now, we are still waiting to hear which day the BSU students will be here.  It has been narrowed down to two days, the 29th or the 31st of August.  Professor Cruz has promised to have a fim commitment by the end of the next week.  Thanks to Jennifer Velasco and Dale DeVon for offering room and board for the group.  We will need individuals who will be able to show the group around; if you are interested, please cal l Barbara at  243-1747 or email at bblackfred@hotmail.com or if you would like to provide food for a group dinner or any other ideas you might have to make their stay more welcoming.  Any contribution is appreciated.

Thanks again to all who have halped out this last year and don't forget we meet the FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH AT 6:30 AT THE LIBRARY.

Support the "best of both bills" for trail funding

The message below is from the Rails to Trails Conservancy, an organization that promotes the development and building of trails and pathways nationwide.  TEA-21, legislation which provides significant funding for trail-building projects, is nearing reauthorization.  We have an opportunity to help ensure that this legislation will be the best possible.  Please read the message below and consider contacting your Senators and Representative to let them know that you want the "best of both bills."  You can get a good overview of the highlights of both the Senate and House version of the bills here.

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Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Action Alert

TEA-21 Reauthorization Nears Finish Line; Your Help is Needed!

Dear Friend,

We are in the final sprint of the race to reauthorize TEA-21, and your help is needed to make sure that your community - and the trails and greenways cause - emerge as winners.

From ISTEA in 1991 to TEA-21 in 1998, federal transportation laws have been increasingly helpful to the creation and improvement of trails across the country. In TEA-21, $3.6 billion was provided for Transportation Enhancements; many other programs such as Recreational Trails and CMAQ have also contributed to supporting trail projects and other bicycle/pedestrian facilities. 

But TEA-21 expired in 2003 and has since limped along through a series of extensions.  Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) has been working to protect the programs which have benefited us, while seeking even better provisions in the next six-year transportation law.  The process has been long and difficult, but the end is in sight and there's hope on the horizon.  Speaker Hastert (R-IL) has announced that an agreement was reached on funding levels for the bill that allows Senate and House conferees to wrap up TEA-21 reauthorization.  The race is on to the finish line, now set for July 19.

The House and Senate each passed bills in the spring, and conferees from the two chambers are currently working out differences and crafting that final bill.  Some programs, such as Transportation Enhancements, appear to be safe.  Other programs, such as Recreational Trails, have considerable differences in funding levels between the two bills, while some important new initiatives, such as the Non-Motorized Transportation Pilot Program, exist in one bill and not the other. 

RTC wants Congress to adopt the "Best of Both Bills."  Click here to link to the one-page document we have been circulating on Capitol Hill.  You'll see that we highlight the programs which have significant differences between the two bills.  All are important to our community, and you can help us achieve our goals.  Click here for background information on each of the programs RTC is supporting. 

The clock is ticking, and here's what you can do right now, while your Representatives and Senators are home for a mid-summer recess:

• Read the attached one-page summary of the five programs at stake;
• Select one or more programs that you want to personally support;
• Contact your representative and your two senators by either:
  • Calling the Capital Switchboard at 1-202-224-3121; or
  • Finding local contact information at www.senate.gov and www.house.gov;
• Urge them to support your program for the good of your community.

When the final bill passes, RTC will get back to you with a scorecard illustrating the success of our efforts.  It has been a long race, and thanks to your help we're looking at a strong finish.  Thank you for your continued efforts.

Sincerely,

Keith Laughlin President

Logo Contest Winners on Display

You can see the winning Logo Contest entries on display at the Harris branch public library (on Elm St. just north of S.R. 23), or by clicking on this link.

We're very proud of our contestants and hope to soon have these incorporated into a logo that can be used to identify the project.

June 2 Meeting Cancelled

Unfortunately we have had to cancel the meeting scheduled for Thursday, June 2.  We hope to be able to reschedule it soon and will let you know when a new time has been set.

Logo Contest Deadline Extended

I think I realize better than anyone how quickly deadlines can come up on you.  We have heard that some kids and parents weren't able to get their entry in by the contest deadline.  If you were interested in submitting an entry, but thought you couldn't meet yesterday's deadline we will be happy to receive any additional entries until May 20, 2005.  If you would still like to submit an entry you can either drop your entry off at the Harris branch public library (Elm Rd. just north of S.R. 23) or mail your entry to Barbara Fredman, 50622 Country Knolls, Granger IN 46530.

Submissions should include the child's name, the name of a parent, the child's grade at school and a phone number for contact.

More information about the Logo contest is available here.

St. Joseph County Greenway Visioning Map

News Release

Division of Interpretive and Leisure Services

Today's Date: May 9, 2005
Contact: Brooke Artley
Release Date: May 14-20, 2005

Public Input Requested for County Greenways Visioning Map

St. Patrick’s County Park, 50651 Laurel Rd. in South Bend, Indiana requests public input on the St. Joseph County Greenways Visioning Map.  The public can view the map and make comments on Saturday and Sunday, May 14-15 from 10am to 7:30pm and Monday through Friday, May 16-20 from 8am to noon or 1pm to 4:30pm. After including the public’s additions, St. Joseph County Parks will present the completed visioning map at the Michiana Regional Greenways Visioning Charrette in June. If you have questions regarding the charrette or the greenways map, please call 574/277-4828.

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Meeting Notes - May 3, 2005

MARK YOUR DATE BOOK:

#######NEXT MEETING---JUNE 2nd @ 6:30 in the Library#######

Hello All,

Well, it looks as though Spring has decided to show her lovely head and you know what that means! More children and adults in the streets walking, riding bikes, and jogging. Drive carefully!!! The surveys that were returned to us overwhelmingly reported that Granger residents FEAR for their safety from auto traffic when they are out in their neighborhoods.

1) TE Application Status
There is no word from INDOT yet as to awards for Transportation Enhancement Grants. MACOG feels that we will not hear until December of this year. This gives us plenty of opportunity to continue getting out the word about the project and ironing out details.

2) Web site
As you are all aware Brenda Tipper has been running our web site. Unfortunately for our community Brenda announced that she and her family will be leaving the community in July to move to Toronto, Canada. Brenda has been a integral part of this project and will be sorely missed.

Brenda has graciously offered to conduct a web "class" for members of the committee and other path supporters in our community who might be interested in taking over the site. If you are interested in the class, (even if you are not interested in taking over the website) please contact Brenda (273 4913 or grangerpaths@comcast.net). Please contact Barbara Fredman (243 1747) if you would like to take on web site administration.

3) Project Finances
We continue to ask members receiving this email to consider making a tax deductible contribution to this effort. Contributions will go towards printing materials for outreach, contest costs and the path itself. Any unused funds will go to Granger Business Association scholarship funds. Either way you look at it, the funds will benefit the community!

Contributions should be made out to “Granger Business Association” with a note in the memo space indicating the contribution is to support the Granger Paths project. Send to B.Fredman, 50622 Country Knolls Drive, Granger, IN 46530.

Many thanks to Dale DeVon, Brenda Tipper and Granger Business Association for their generous contributions.

4) LOGO Contest
Contest flyers have been given to the schools closest to potential path areas. Logo entries will be hung in the Library May 17 with judging taking place on the 18th. Our judges are: Jennifer Velasco, Eileen Connelly, Sue Dylewski (Township Trustee), John Vance (Harris Fire), Sheri McGrail and Angela Faulkner (Granger Business Association). The entries will be on display in the library from the 18th trough the 30th of May. We hope that many community members will come out to see all the local talent.

5) American Institute of Architects and Ball State
Tom Jordon was happy to announce that the American Institute of Architects of which he is a member will probably be able to assist us in some form. Further discussion with the AIA will take place.

Dr. James Sedegy, Senior Research Fellow, Building Better Communities Initiative, Dept. of Urban Planning of Ball State, will be meeting this week with committee members to discuss the possibility of working with us. More information at our next meeting!

6) AEP and utility easements
Andy McGrail continues his discussions with AEP about the possibility of having paths along the easements by the power lines. This is a very complex issue and will take more research. Thank you Andy for your continuing efforts.

7) Granger Community Day
Granger Business Association is sponsoring Granger Community Day at the South Bend Silverhawks game on June 16^th at Coveleski Stadium. Vouchers will be available at Martins on June 4th from 8-11 am. These vouchers are being sold for $3.00 each and proceeds will go to a variety of Granger community programs, including Granger Paths.

We will have a table at the event and we hope to have some information and of course, the winning logos. Dale DeVon and Eileen Connelly have volunteered to man the table. Anyone else who is interested should contact Barbara Fredman at 243-1747.

DON'T FORGET OUR NEXT MEETING -- THURSDAY, JUNE 2nd !!!

Meeting Notes - April 7, 2005

IMPORTANT MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT!!!
The meeting for the month of May has been changed to TUESDAY May 3 at 6:30 (still at the Library). This will give many of you who cannot attend on Thursdays an opportunity to join in the discussion.  We look forward to seeing you there, but if you can’t attend read on for other opportunities to participate.

LOGO CONTEST
We are currently sponsoring a contest to create a logo for our project. Children in grades 3-5 and 6-8, who attend the six schools closest to the proposed paths, are being asked to portray how they, their families and their friends would use the paths. Awards will be given to the top 3 entries in each division. In order to reach out to as many community members as possible information on the contest will be included in the Granger Gazette and at the library. Entries will be displayed at Harris Library from May 18th to May 30th, with a winner announced May 23 Thanks to Sara Baird and Susie Cleaver of the Library.

We look forward to receiving many wonderful entries and creating more community awareness through this logo project.

$ FINANCES $
Speaking of wonderful entries--- If you’d like to receive a receipt with our new logo on it, we are requesting donations to help us provide awards for those entries! Your contribution will be tax deductible. Your check should be made out to the “Granger Business Association” with a notation in the memo area that designates that funds go to Granger Path Project. You can send your contribution to:

Barbara Fredman
50622 Country Knolls Dr
Granger, IN 46530

In addition to funding the top 6 awards, funds will go towards future projects and activities. With your support, we can make this happen!
(For those who are wondering why checks are made out to GBA, we are fortunate to have the support of the Granger Business Association. This support allows us tax-exempt status.)

SURVEYS
Many thanks to Susan Fischbach and Shari Baker for handing out surveys at the Martins at 23 and Adams in the cold weather. The surveys continue to show enthusiastic support for the project.

MICHIANNA CHARRETTE
Many of you may have heard of a group (Michiana Regional Greenways Charrette) that is planning multiuse pathways for the entire St. Joseph County area, including neighboring counties and Michigan.  The Granger Path Project has been represented by Gary Babcoke who has made sure that our plans have been included in this project and also has requested that future paths include: Adams, Brick and Ironwood.  Gary will continue to take feedback from the surveys and meetings to Michiana Charrette. For more information on the Charrette contact: chuck@lehmanandlehman.com.

AIA/BALL STATE UNIVERSITY/UNIVERSITY OF NOTRE DAME
Tom Jordan has volunteered to contact the Indiana Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) to ask them to take on Granger Paths as a community project.  AIA often assists community organizations by providing them with ideas for projects and professional materials that can be used in presentations to the community. Tom has also agreed to contact Notre Dame’s architecture school to see if they would be interested in participating.  We have also contacted Ball State to see if their Urban Planning program would be interested (Thanks to Kelly Wright, a former Granger resident who contacted us about this program).

Once again, thanks to all for all their support and don’t forget that our next meeting is TUESDAY MAY 3RD @ 6:30, Harris Library

Financial Support for Granger Paths

Anyone wishing to make a financial donation to support Granger Paths can now do so, courtesy of the Granger Business Association (GBA).  The GBA is a tax-exempt, charitable organization and has agreed to support Granger Paths as a project.  This means that donations to Granger Paths via the GBA will be tax deductible.

To make a donation:

• Make check payable to the "Granger Business Association"
• Mark "Granger Paths" on the front of the check to Indicate that the donation be used to support Granger Paths
• Mail the check to: Barbara Fredman, 50622 Country Knolls Drive, Granger, IN  46530.

Money donated to the project through the GBA will be used over the short term for publicity for the project, printing brochures, posters, organizing events and activities to promote the project, etc.  Ultimately donations will be used to build the pathways.

Although we believe we will be successful in building pathways for Granger, in the event that this project cannot be completed, any money donated would be used for some of the other community projects supported by the GBA -- scholarships and Brummit Park facilities.

The success of the pathways project will depend on the support of the Granger community.  We hope that many of you will be able to help out and show that support with a contribution.

ATTENTION GRANGER CHILDREN -- ARTISTS WANTED!

We’re having a contest to help us create a logo for our pathway project. We would like you to create a logo which shows how you, your family, and friends would use pathways in Granger. This picture will be our Official Logo and will be used on maps, pamphlets and other items, as well as on the top of this webpage!

If you attend one of the following schools -- Northpoint, Mary Frank, Prairie Vista, Horizon or Discovery -- you can submit your artwork to your school office.  Otherwise, you can mail or deliver your artwork to either
- Barbara Fredman, 50622 Country Knolls Drive, Granger, IN 46530 or
- Brenda Tipper, 15773 Durham Way, Granger, IN 46530.
(Or, if you are able to scan your artwork to a file we will gladly accept it via email to grangerpaths@comcast.net.)

Your artwork should be no larger than 8 1/2 x 11 inches. Please include with your submission: your name, your parent’s name and phone number, and the name of your school.

Submissions will be displayed at the Harris Library. Winners will be announced May 23rd.

3 prizes (1st 2nd and 3rd) will be awarded for each division.
Division 1: Grades 3-5
Division 2: Grades 6-8

All artwork submitted becomes the property of Granger Path Project and will not be returned.

Next Meeting Date - April 7

Our next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 7, 6:30 at the Harris Branch library (51446 Elm Rd., Elm Rd. & SR 23).  Any Granger resident interested in or wanting to learn more about the pathways project is always welcome and encouraged to attend any of our meetings (usually scheduled the first Thursday of each month).  We hope we will see you there this Thursday.

If you would like more information please contact Barbara Fredman (243-1747 or email).

Granger Community Open Forum

We'd like to draw your attention to this notice of a Granger Community Open Forum:

The elected representatives of Granger started a program in February 2003 to keep in touch with the community they represent. County Council District C member Dale De Von, along with County Commissioner Mark Dobson, and local business owner Kerry Byler of the Granger Gazette, are organizing what they are calling the "Community Open Forum."

The forum will allow the community to have a voice, and will be held on Tuesday, March 15, at Mary Frank Elementary School, 13111 Adams Road, Granger, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.  Doors will open at 6:15 p.m. All community members, including local business, sports and homeowners organizations, are encouraged to attend.

The first community open forum was held in February 2003 to probe and evaluate county and township issues within the community. Some of the issues that were discussed were the county wheel tax, the Harris Township park, county policing and many other items.

DeVon stated, "While running for election, we realized a need for communication with the public and their elected officials. This is our way of making ourselves accessible to the residents that we represent."

Expected to attend is Mark Dobson, County Commisioner, John Vance, Harris Township Fire Chief, Sue Dylewski, Harris Township Trustee, Dale DeVon, County Council Member, Frank Canarecci, St. Joseph County Sheriff and Michael Dvorak, St. Joseph County Prosecutor.

Sue Dylewski, Harris Township Trustee, and John Vance, Harris Township Fire Chief, will converse about township issues and the new ambulance service.  Mark Dobson, County Commissioner will discuss community road issues including Gumwood Road and widening on State Road 23.  Dale DeVon will discuss zoning issues and pedesdtrian walkways.  Frank Canerecci, St. Joseph County Sheriff will discuss safety issues and patrols in Granger.

State officicals are currently in session and will be available at a later date to discuss issues with the community.  Other county and township officials have been invited to attend to offer assistance with residents' questions and concerns.

For more information, contact Dale De Von at 235-9658, Mark Dobson at 235-9534, or Kerry Byler at 277-2679.

As noted, Dale DeVon will be discussing the pathways project and some individuals working with the project will be attending the forum.  If you can make time for this community forum I would encourage you to attend.

MACOG Transportation Plan Open House

MACOG will be holding an open house on Wednesday, March 16, from 3:00 till 7:00, at the County-City Building (227 W. Jefferson Blvd., South Bend) in the Commissioner's Conference Room, 7th floor.  MACOG’s 2030 Transportation Plan will be presented.  This is an opportunity for area residents to view and comment on long-range transportation planning for the 3-county area co-ordinated by MACOG.    Additional information about the plan and the open houses can be found at the MACOG website.

A draft of the MACOG's 2030 Transportation Plan is available here.

Meeting Notes - March 3, 2005

Hello Neighbors,
Spring seems to be starting off on the shaky side as winter tries to get its last gasps in.  But if March came in like a lion with the snowstorm we can hope that after another couple of weeks it will head out like a lamb and we’ll be into a wonderful warm spring.

Mark the dates for our next meetings:
April 7, 6:30 pm
May 5, 6:30 pm
both at the Harris Library
Meetings will generally be scheduled the first Thursday of each month.  Anyone interested in finding out more about or helping out with the pathways project is always welcome to attend.

1. TE Update/Grants/Surveys
Funds for the Transportation Enhancement (TE) program at the state level are secure for the time being and are not being used by the Indiana Dept of Transportation (INDOT) to meet the requirement to return a portion of unobligated transportation funds to the federal government.  It is still likely to be some time before we know if our proposal will receive any funding from the 2005 application process.

We are still distributing and collecting surveys of interest in multi-use pathways for Granger.  A number of surveys have been recently distributed with homeowner association newsletters.  The survey can also be completed on-line by visiting the project website.  Most responses have been very supportive.  Some respondents have expressed concerns regarding safety and potential path routes.  If you know of anyone with concerns, please direct them to Barbara Fredman (243 1747) or have them send an email to grangerpaths@comcast.net.  The more input and feedback we receive the better potential issues can be resolved during the planning process.  We want to make sure that we are aware of all areas of concern and have an opportunity to address these as planning goes forward.  It’s important to note that the maps and drawings available on the website are a “first crack” at putting something down on paper.  They are intended to show possibilities rather than any definitive plans.

2. Harris Township Meeting
Barbara Fredman has been in touch with Jeff Broadwick from the Harris Township Board to see about presenting the project at the next Township Board meeting.  We will need to address issues such as insurance and path maintenance.

3. Granger Business Association (GBA)
Barbara Fredman and Brenda Tipper spoke with the GBA Board about the project.  The Board members were quite supportive of the project and its goals.  They agreed to support Granger Paths as a non-profit project.  This means that tax deductible contributions to the project can be made through the GBA and that the project can be eligible to receive grants and donations from charitable foundations that support trailway building.  The GBA has also agreed to help us with printing promotional materials and with publicizing and promoting the project.  Many thanks to the Board for their support.

4. County Historical Society
The County Historical Society has offered their expertise and specialists to help us ensure that we are able to preserve historic sites, landmarks and trees along potential pathway routes.  One of the staff members of the Historical Society recommended a new path paving product that may provide a better alternative to concrete.

5. Right-of-Way/Easements/AEP
Andy McGrail discussed with AEP potential pathway corridors next to utility easements.  In some places AEP has easements from property owners that would have to be reviewed/revised to allow use of this property for pathways.  Andy will continue to follow-up with AEP.

6. Michiana Area Council of Government (MACOG) 2030 transportation plan
MACOG will be holding an open house on Wednesday, March 16, from 3:00 till 7:00, at the County-City Building (227 W. Jefferson Blvd., South Bend) in the Commissioner's Conference Room, 7th floor.  MACOG’s 2030 Transportation Plan will be presented.  This is an opportunity for area residents to view and comment on long-range transportation planning for the 3-county area co-ordinated by MACOG.  Further information about the 2030 Transportation Plan and open houses is available at the MACOG website.

7. Project Name and “Logo”
Our pathways project does not yet have an “official” name.  We have used “Granger Paths” on the website and the South Bend Tribune articles have referred to people involved with the project as the “Granger Paths Committee.”  We discussed sponsoring a contest for Granger children to come up with an official name, slogan and/or logo.  Those present at the meeting agreed that we would use “Granger Paths” as our name and sponsor a contest for area children to develop a logo or picture to represent the project.  We expect to work out the details and start up the contest in early April.

Although we agreed to “Granger Paths” if anyone has other ideas we are very willing to take suggestions before officially adopting the name.  Email any ideas to grangerpaths@comcast.net.

8. Funding Issue Discussion
During meetings and discussions with Granger residents the question of how pathways will be funded and maintained are frequently raised.  Will fundraising be completely voluntary?  How much money is needed to build the paths?  And how much to maintain the paths?  Will Homeowners’ Associations be asked for any contribution?  Will there be any tax or additional assessment for Granger residents?  Will the township or county contribute anything?  We want to be consistent with the answers to these questions so we discussed these during the meeting.  Until we know the situation with respect to our TE grant application and until we have more definite pathway routes planned, it is not possible to say how much money will be required for building and maintaining pathways.  And until we know what will be required and what might be available from various funding agencies, it is difficult to say what the best and most appropriate sources of funds might be.  The best sources of funding will have to be decided in a broader discussion with Granger residents.