The Syracuse- Wawasee Trail Committee discussed the Conklin Bay project that is expected to start soon. Pictured from left are Bob Smith, Kay Young and Dr. Tom Edington. (Photo by Phoebe Muthart)

SYRACUSE — Syracuse-Wawasee Trails Committee heard an update on the Conklin Bay project at its meeting Monday, July 15. The group also discussed plans for this weekend’s Tour des Lakes.

Most of the meeting centered on the new Conklin Bay project. Construction on the project is set to begin. A $1 million Next Levels grant from the state has helped move the “shovel-ready” project into the construction phase. Bob Smith, an attorney and committee member, has handled the details of the contracts. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was conducted and the contracts with vendors were signed.

“It’s a big relief for us all,” said Kay Young, the committee chairman. “They are ready to go.”

Smith gave some details of the plans for the upcoming project. He gave an update on the specific materials that will be needed for the boardwalk project. He is also working with architects and, as of last Friday, “everything is updated,” he said. Drawings and contracts are signed and it will take several weeks for a time line to be established.

The rest of the funds for the project have yet to be deposited, however, grants from The K-21 Foundation and The Kosciusko County Convention and Visitors Bureau have been secured, in addition to the $1 million state grant.

“We should have close to $2.4 million earmarked for the project,” said Young.

Construction on the project will start on the east side of Conklin Bay. Work is expected to be done this year.
“We will have an update by the next meeting,” said Young. “We should start to see some activity soon.”

Dr. Tom Edington, the treasurer, gave the financial report for June. Donations totaled $1,100 and expenses totaled $2,073.45.

The committee discussed plans for Tour des Lakes, which is Saturday, July 20. Registration starts at 7 a.m. for the 60-mile bike ride. Donations of food have been provided. Chad Jonsson, a committee member, said he doesn’t know how many registrants there are but, he said, “we are down some in numbers.” The route will be marked this Thursday night and the tents are coming in this week. Several stops will be located along the route, including The Syracuse Rotary Club’s tent. The Rose Home and the Wawasee High School wrestling team will also be assisting with the day’s event. For more information, visit www.tourdeslakes.com.

The committee is still actively looking for a new executive director. Applications, inquiries and resumes can be submitted to [email protected] or call him at (574) 457-3440.

There will be no car show this year at Oakwood Resort. The Tails and Trails event will be Saturday, Oct. 26.
The next meeting is at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19, at the trails office in downtown Syracuse.