09-05-2006 South Bend Breaks Ground on Riverside Trail

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o��ovTYJ v b � erucp y M � . 1865 Office of the Mayor MEDIA RELEASE Tuesday, September 5,2006 11:30 AM Contact: Mikki Dobski, Director of Communications&Special Projects, 235-5855 or 876-1564 Carl Littrell, City Engineer, 235-5937 South Bend Breaks Ground on Riverside Trail The residents of the Keller Park and surrounding neighborhoods have long dreamed a place on the river where they could stroll in the evenings, take a morning jog, where children could ride bikes, and where neighbors to could meet to enjoy the beauty of the St. Joseph River. That vision is now becoming a reality, as Mayor Steve Luecke today joined City leaders, and residents at Keller Park to break ground on Phase I of the new Riverside Trail. "This is a project that has come to the forefront in our public discussions with residents during our City Plan process, and we are excited to take the next step in fulfilling the vision of a walkable, bikeable community," commented Mayor Luecke. "This trail will be part of an expanding system of trails in South Bend that is not only enhancing fitness and quality of life in our community, but also, as residents take advantage of these paths, will help to reduce pollution from vehicle traffic, and make South Bend a Clean City." Phase I of the Riverside Trail will extend on Riverside Dr. from the Angela St. Bridge to Oakwood Blvd., and will feature a 10 ft. wide asphalt multi-use path that will allow users to walk, run, bike, or blade along the 1.75 mile route. At the area between the Keller Park boat landing and the tennis courts, where the bank is too narrow to accommodate the asphalt path, an 800 ft. long, 10 ft. wide, cantilevered concrete walkway will be installed on the bank, supported by pilings. A 2ft. wide grass path will be left on the bank side for runners who prefer a softer surface. The existing street lighting will be modified to also light the path, and other features - more -