Jackson Creek Trail Named 'Outstanding Park Development' at Indiana Parks Conference

[image:6922,left]FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2011

For more information contact
Dave Williams, Operations and Development Director, City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department, (812) 349-3706 or [williamd@bloomington.in.gov|mailto:williamd@bloomington.in.gov]

Bloomington, IN - The Jackson Creek Trail took top honors as the state's "Outstanding Park Development" during the Indiana Park and Recreation Association annual conference in Indianapolis January 21.

According to Mi'Chelle Bettner, Executive Director of IPRA, the committee that selected the award winners was particularly impressed by the Jackson Creek Trail's role as a connection between two schools, three city parks, and several area neighborhoods.

"The Jackson Creek Trail had all the characteristics of a well-planned and well-executed project," Bettner said. "The judges especially liked the long-range view of the trail, that it's a small part of a much larger transportation plan."

The first of several phases of the Jackson Creek Trail was completed last fall with the construction of a 6/10 mile segment from the roundabout at Rogers-High-Winslow Streets through the Goat Farm to Sherwood Oaks Park.

"We have heard the community's interest in trails loud and clear, and we are happy to continue building pathways to help people travel, recreate and have a higher quality of life," said Mayor Mark Kruzan. "Trails build community character, improve community condition, and are a sustainable and progressive addition to Bloomington."

Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department director Mick Renneisen said the creation of the first phase of the Jackson Creek Trail puts the department in a position to eventually connect to other trails and have a community-wide trail system. "Our mayor and city council have been extremely supportive as we make the connection between trails and alternative transportation options, greenspace, and quality of life," he said.

For more information about the Jackson Creek Trail, contact the City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department at 349-3700, or visit the [Jackson Creek Trail Web site.|4714]

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