Comprehensive Trail System Promotes Local Connectivity, Active Living
Align Southern Indiana, in collaboration with the Our Southern Indiana Regional Development Authority, is proud to announce the completion of the Regional Trails Master Plan. The plan, which aims to create a comprehensive trail system connecting six counties – Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Jefferson, Scott, and Washington – was funded through the state’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI), as well as grant initiatives coordinated by Align Southern Indiana.
The regional trail system will connect 22 communities within the six counties to popular destinations, including cultural and historical sites, local, regional and state parks, and neighboring regions. Objectives include an emphasis on regional connections, greater safety for guests, and ultimately, promoting more active, healthy living throughout the region.
“This plan represents a collaborative effort to improve the quality of life for Southern Indiana residents,” said Dr. Rita Shourds, President and CEO of Align Southern Indiana. “By connecting our communities, we’re fostering opportunities for outdoor recreation, economic development, and healthier lifestyles. I am proud of the work our team has done to bring this vision to life, and we look forward to seeing the trails take shape in the years ahead.”
The Regional Trails Master Plan is the result of a seven-month planning process designed to increase regional connectivity, safety, and awareness through a network of trails that link communities to key destinations, including cultural and historical sites, parks, and neighboring regions. The plan outlines future projects that can be implemented over time as funding becomes available, with an overall goal of promoting active, healthy living throughout the region.
The planning process included significant community engagement, with open houses held in each county, as well as an online survey that garnered over 870 responses. The input gathered from residents helped shape the plan’s recommendations, with key priorities and projects identified for each county. Align Southern Indiana’s Trails Team, along with representatives from each county, worked closely with consultants to ensure the plan reflects the unique needs and goals of the region.
About Align SI:
Align Southern Indiana was founded in 2017 to actively facilitate a shared regional process that aligns resources, addresses needs, and produces sustainable solutions resulting in Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Scott, and Washington counties in Southern Indiana achieving its potential as a best place to live, work, and play. Foundational areas of focus include economic and talent development, education, regional leadership, quality of life, and quality of place. For more information about Align SI, visit our website at www.alignsi.com.