Last leg of Van Buren Trail in sight

For $20,000 the City of South Haven likely soon will be able extend the linear park also known as Van Buren Trail into the city’s residential neighborhoods.

In 2009, as part of the city’s Pedestrian, Bicycle and Paddle Plan the council approved a potential multiuse pathway which would be located along the former Chesapeake & Ohio railway line.

To finish the pathway the council was asked to purchase the property from ELC Leasing Corp. The property connects Elkenburg Street and the public right-of-way at the south end of Maple Street.

City officials negotiated a tentative purchase agreement to obtain the property that is the last leg needed to complete the trail.

City Council members voted 6 to 1 to approve the purchase, provided $205,000 worth of state and federal tax liens on the property is released.

The Van Buren Trail has an unimproved surface and runs from the city of Hartford to the city of South Haven.  

Birders and hikers enjoy the trail that also is used for biking, hiking, snowmobiling and cross country skiing. The main entrance to the dirt or gravel surfaced multi-use trail is through Van Buren State Park.

Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: Brian Dissette, City of South Haven