Bike Trail Feasibility Study

JPR partnered with the St. Joseph County Divisions of Economic Development, Planning, and Zoning to conduct a Feasibility Study for proposed trail routes outlined in the New Carlisle 2040 Comprehensive Plan, Indiana Enterprise Center (IEC) Management Plan, and the MACOG 2050 Transportation Plan. The study aimed to prioritize planning efforts for developing a multi-use trail system in the New Carlisle area, focusing on enhancing connectivity, promoting sustainable transportation, and creating recreational opportunities for the community by identifying the most feasible trails to begin with.

To determine priority segments for each proposed trail, the team developed a weighted feasibility matrix, enabling the identification of the most cost-effective and efficient routes. The ultimate vision is to create a trail loop that weaves through and around the Town of New Carlisle, laying the foundation for future extensions to connect with additional destinations and neighboring communities.  

Stakeholder interviews, a community workshop, and an online survey were conducted to gather valuable input from the community, helping to refine the proposed trail segments. As part of this project, high-level cost estimates will be prepared, and selected trail routes will be advanced to a conceptual-level plan.