Shown is a view of the former Wabash Railroad corridor south of Topeka where a multiuse trail is planned. The trail is intended to connect communities and enhance outdoor recreation opportunities. Photo provided by LaGrange County Community Foundation.

News Release

LAGRANGE — The LaGrange County Community Foundation has received a grant of $5 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. through the Community Leadership Implementation Grants component of the eighth phase of its Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow, also called the “GIFT VIII,” initiative.

This is one of 30 implementation grants being awarded through GIFT VIII, a statewide Lilly Endowment initiative designed to support the efforts of community foundations and their partners to strengthen the quality of life for the people in the towns, cities, counties and regions they serve.

The grant will support the estimated $11 million needed for the first two phases of the Hawpatch Trail in Topeka. Managed by LaGrange County Trails, the funding will be instrumental in advancing the project, attracting additional resources and turning the vision of a community bike trail into reality, according to a news release from the foundation.

“This is truly a dream come true for LaGrange County,” said Octavia Yoder, executive director of the foundation. “To begin a multimillion-dollar trail project with $5 million is beyond comprehension. This will be a game-changer for our community, providing a safer route for cyclists and walkers, and providing more outdoor recreational opportunities. Words cannot express our gratitude and excitement for this opportunity.”

The Hawpatch Trail is a 17-mile, multiuse bike and pedestrian trail that will connect Noble County’s Fishing Line Trail with Elkhart County’s Strawberry Valley Trail. Following the former Wabash railroad corridor, the project represents a total investment of nearly $18 million and will be completed in five phases. The first two phases will span 9.25 miles in and around Topeka, serving as the foundation for the trail’s full development and bringing new outdoor recreation to the community.

The project is the culmination of years of planning and community collaboration. Since 2019, LaGrange County Trails has championed the creation of biking and hiking trails to promote safe, active lifestyles. Recognizing the former railroad as a prime location, the group identified it as a solution to address the safety concerns of cyclists traveling along CR 700S into Topeka. Over the past five years, the group has worked to secure site control and build the momentum to make the vision a reality.

The Hawpatch Trail also reflects a community-driven vision outlined in the LaGrange County Together comprehensive plan, which prioritizes the development of trails to enhance connectivity, safety and outdoor recreation for residents and visitors alike.

The next steps for Phases 1 and 2 of the Hawpatch Trail focus on laying the groundwork to bring the project to life. Key activities include land acquisition, surveying, community engagement, trail design and planning, fundraising and construction. Land surveying is slated to begin in 2025, coinciding with efforts to secure the necessary trail corridor. These efforts will pave the way for the development of the initial 9.25 miles.

“This grant will significantly accelerate the construction timeline for Phase 1 of the Hawpatch Trail, allowing us to complete the project years ahead of schedule,” said Jeff Wingstrom, president of LaGrange County Trails.

“Beyond expediting progress,” Wingstrom said, “the grant will also enhance fundraising efforts and, most importantly, improve safety for citizens engaging in recreational and commuting activities. We are incredibly grateful for the LaGrange County Community Foundation and their partnership, as well as Lilly Endowment for its pivotal role in helping turn the Hawpatch Trail into a reality. Our heartfelt thanks also go to our community — businesses and individuals — who have generously contributed or plan to contribute toward the $225,000 matching grant also offered to support this project. Donations are still needed to meet this match, and we encourage anyone who can to contribute through the foundation.”

“Providing a safe, scenic route for walkers and cyclists in Topeka will be life-changing,” said Yoder. “We are beyond grateful for the opportunity to serve our rural community and make this dream a reality.”