The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the city of Columbia City celebrated the opening of the Blue River Trail south extension yesterday.

“Trails are all about making connections between people, the great outdoors, and to the points in between,” said Allen Hurst, DNR trails manager. “DNR is proud to support this extension of the Blue River Trail in Columbia City, which is just part of Indiana’s historic investment in trails statewide.”

The Blue River Trail south extension, a 1.17 mile, 10-foot-wide multi-use trail with sections in both asphalt and concrete, was constructed by Columbia City with help from a $1,802,734.00 grant administered by the DNR.

The trail extends the Blue River Trail in Columbia City south through the city and connects to Columbia City High School. The project includes a new pedestrian crossing over the Blue River as well as various road crossings. With this extension, the Blue River Trail now traverses over 6 miles.

DNR has led the largest infusion of trails funding in state history, with $180 million in dedicated trail funding administered through DNR that facilitates critical trail connections within and between Hoosier communities. A total of 53 of the 89 projects are complete, with another 18 under construction. With this opening, more than 149 miles of trail have been built since the program’s inception.