Today marked the unveiling of a new bicyclist and pedestrian rest and relaxation stop located on the corner of Market Street and South McKinley Street in Warsaw. The Krebs Trailhead Park features a pavilion, restroom, bike racks, drinking fountain and a bicycle workstation.

In addition, the new park also features a historical monument — a section of the historic Winona Interurban Railroad. The Winona Interurban Railroad, started in 1902, once included 77 miles of rail stretching from Peru to Goshen that brought hundreds of thousands of people to events such as fairs and religious gatherings. In August, a 100-foot section of history was laid out in Warsaw as a reminder of the progress Indiana, and especially Warsaw and Winona Lake have made with transportation. (see related story and video)

The Krebs family

The park would not have been possible without the charitable donation of the Krebs family, for whom the park was named. The land that was used for the park was donated by the Krebs family, who had purchased the property approximately 10 years ago. Eddie Krebs admitted that when he purchased the property, his main goal was to keep development out of his neighborhood. However, after being approached about possibly putting the empty lot to use as a park, Krebs agreed to donate the property.

“I am very happy with the outcome,” said Krebs with a smile. “I think this will be a place for people to enjoy for many years.”

Krebs said the city of Warsaw not only listened to his and his neighbors concerns about the park, but attempted to assure their opinions were taken into account when formulating the plan of what the park would look like. Krebs, who wanted to preserve some of the natural beauty in the area, noted the city planted shrubbery and trees to assist with softening of the appearance of the new public restroom.

According to Warsaw Parks Director Staci Young, the park was created without the use of local tax dollars and is just one step toward the following the Warsaw and Winona Lake’s dream of a bike-friendly community.

Warsaw Mayor Joe Thallamer stated, “This was a real partnership with The Convention and Visitors’ Commission, OrthoWorx, the city’s assets, such as our street and parks department. Everyone pitched in and made this project, which I consider a real collaboration. This gets people excited and we have many other trails to do. I am just so happy that this is here.”