What’s happening: Project stakeholders are looking to extend the Lakeshore Trail an additional two miles in Berrien County, connecting existing trailways in Saint Joseph and Benton Harbor with the eventual goal of continuing its track northward to Van Buren County. The non-motorized trail currently stretches 20 miles parallel to Lakeshore Drive along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
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Where it’s going: The Friends of Berrien County Trails nonprofit is looking to complete two miles of the paved multi-use path along M-63, from Higman Park Drive to Monte Road in Benton Harbor. The extension will pave the way for the trail’s eventual connection to Van Buren County to the north.
What’s planned: The Lakeshore Trail extension will include two miles of a paved, universally-accessible path that includes the installation of trail signage, crosswalks, benches, boardwalks, nature restoration efforts, and more. Construction is expected to begin in June with it opening sometime in October.
How they’re doing it: The Lakeshore Trail project has been accepted into the state’s placemaking initiative Public Spaces Community Places, a joint effort from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity. As part of the initiative, organizers have launched a $75,000 crowdfunding campaign on the Michigan-based Patronicity platform. Should they successfully reach their goal by 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 30, the MEDC will contribute a $75,000 matching grant to the project.
Learn more about the Lakeshore Trail project on
Patronicity.
Why it’s important: “Completion of the Lakeshore Trail project will provide multiple benefits to Berrien County,” says Dan Gilmartin, CEO and Executive Director of the Michigan Municipal League. “This trail will attract visitors from within and outside the community, giving people a safe and accessible way to experience the outdoors and connect with the world around them.”
Got a development news story to share? Email MJ Galbraith here or send him a tweet @mikegalbraith.
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