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Next Meeting April 28, 2026 @ 7PM at the St. Charles School, Peru
Nickel Plate Trail Minutes
March 31, 2026
Attendees: Ted Cox, Steve Gough, Gloyd Johnson, David Cota, Doug Martin, Joe Vernon, Navy Vernon, Dan McCarthy, Tim Finster, Mike Kuepper, Dave Kota, Jeff Kassebaum, Terry Berkabyle, Bill Hanson and wife Terry, Dennis Grossnickle, Jean Holder, Scott Zeyen, Duane Long, Jeff Fivecoate, Phil Hart, Chris Baker, Ron Hansen, Doug Martin
The meeting began at 7:02 PM at the St Charles School in Peru. After introductions, Steve moved to accept the minutes, seconded by Joe, motion carried.
Steve presented the treasurer’s report. Steve summarized the transactions for February. There were $2,311 in income all from donations. Expenses were $742.16. Included in the expenses were gas, maintenance on the tractor, and fees. YTD income is $7,938.50, expenses are $4,069.55. Steve explained the Next Level Trails budget. Jeff motioned to approve, Joe 2nd, motion carried.
Ted and Mike discussed the needs at the Cassville bridge. Ted reported that Dave Campbell will be starting work on or around April 10. Volunteers will be needed when the construction date is set. We will need the tractor to spread gravel needed and, we will need a couple loads of gravel delivered to the site. Hope to have this project completed before the end of April.
Jeff Kassebaum discussed the area that we are hoping to repave north of Miami. He discussed the financial needs and how we are going to finance this project. Donations are needed.
Dan discussed the progress on our new website. The website will have a new map of the trail, and we are working on an interactive map. Progress is moving along and the site will be ready soon.
The sign project is still being discussed. We are still waiting on a method to place the wood posts in a metal holder to help prevent the posts from decaying due to environmental concerns. This method is currently used by the state and county. Scott questioned the design and would like to see if it will be usable for our current signs which continually need repair.
Navi discussed a meeting with the community foundation to find out information about how we can better utilize potential funding. It turns out that we need a 5-year plan with projects and costs that must be in place to put us in a better position to receive funding.
April 25 is Celebrate Trails Day. Mike is setting up a program that will include a ribbon cutting on the MAC trail.
Ted discussed the potential restroom in Rochester.
Navi discussed the Panhandle Trail meeting that Joe, Navi and Ted attended. Navi suggested that we have an information packet to hand out at our meetings. Navi had a sample made up and displayed it.
Big thanks to Jeff, Dan, and Scott for replacing the sign near Beef O’Brady’s which displays the Bank of Berne. Also, Joe has been working with donors for a couple of new signs to be placed on the trail.
Navi discussed the project tracking sheet and suggested we all look at it in order to keep the status of projects updated.
Joe discussed the possibility of teaming up with the Denver Youth League to perhaps help with restrooms in the Denver area. It’s another possible project that would be beneficial to both entities.
Mike reported that work on the MAC trail has slowed down. There is a lot of administrative work to get started on the next phase (Bunker Hill). We are ready for 2 of the phases to be let for bid. We are waiting on the DNR to continue the process. We are waiting for funds to get the next 2 projects going on in Bunker Hill. The plan is to continue the trail to the Air Museum at the base when this project is completed. Mike discussed the possibility of the trail continuing west of the Air Museum.
Ted asked about the progress of the “Mofield Mile” memorial. Bill Click is heading up this project and will give an update on the progress when available.
Joe summarized our maintenance meeting with a Monon Trail group from southern Indiana, highlighting our methods of maintenance and the significance of project coordination communication.
Joe also reminded the group that we have committed to having the handicapped signs in place prior to the new website being launched.
Dan made a motion to adjourn, Steve 2nd, motion carried. Meeting ended at 8:17 PM,
Respectfully,
Ted Cox
Next meeting: April 28, 2026 @ 7:00 PM St. Charles School, Peru
I told my bike a joke . . . it didn’t laugh – it just wheely ignored me.
We're looking for a volunteer to help us at the Lover's Lane trailhead in Peru! 🗑️
The trash can there needs someone to check on it regularly and empty it when needed. This spot was faithfully cared for by our friend Ron Mofield, who we lost recently. Ron was a dedicated trail volunteer and we'd love to see his corner of the trail stay in good hands.
If you live near Peru and want to give back to the trail in a simple but meaningful way, just send us a message right here on Facebook. Thank you! 🌿
I am willing to help remove some of the trail-side sticks/branches/logs. Don't have a big chainsaw that works currently, but can remove a lot of the stuff piled to the side of the trail.
I can get this done
Thanks for all who help keep the trail clean!!😎
When you empty the trash can and replace the bag.... where do you dump the full trash bag?
The monthly meeting of the Friends of the Nickel Plate Trail is coming up Tuesday, April 28th at 7PM at the Saint Charles School building at 80 W 5th Street. Parking is located on the East side of the school. All are welcome! Come and see what's happening with your great trail.We would love to have more people attend our meetings and we would really like to get your ideas. The best way to volunteer to help is to attend these meetings, see what the issues and opportunities are and help us with your suggestions.
Sorry, I won't return to Indiana until the 1st, but keep me in the loop after that please 🙂
Celebrate Trails Day 2026 was a rousing success! 🌿☀️ The weather couldn’t have been better for a day full of trail adventures, fresh air, and community fun.
Our team also had a great time spreading the love about the Nickel Plate Trail at the Miami County YMCA Kids Fair—connecting with families, sharing the vision, and getting everyone excited about all the ways to explore and enjoy the trail.
Thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate with us—we can’t wait to see you on the trail again soon! 🚴♀️🥾
✂️🎉 THE MAC TRAIL IS OFFICIALLY OPEN! 🎉✂️
We celebrated the grand opening of the 5-mile Miami Central (MAC) Trail, connecting Bunker Hill Town Park to McGrawsville, Indiana — now a proud part of the Nickel Plate Trail (NPT) system. This welcoming, accessible trail is open to people of all abilities to walk, ride, or roll.
John “JR” Mercer, Bunker Hill Town Council President, did the honors, with Mike Kuepper, NPT Board President, looking on.
Thank you to the Town of Bunker Hill, the NPT board, and everyone who helped make this trail possible — and to all who came out to celebrate. Enjoy the ride! 🚴♂️🌿
Thank you so much!
Awesome, congratulations!
Great job. Missed the celebration but we rode the new extension when we last rode the NPT. Looking forward to riding it again next time we are in the area. We travel from southern Indiana a couple times a year just for the NPT.
Grateful for all your hard work!
Congratulations!
Exciting!!!!
Congratulations and Thanks to everyone who helped develop the trail system in Miami County and our neighboring communities.
Love it!
It's about 17 miles between Bunker Hill and Converse . Is the 5 mile stretch only to McGrawsville ?
You connected it to McGrawsville not Converse. Great trail thanks.
Waiting for the Cloverleaf trail to cross Dixon and go to Russiaville. I keep hearing rumors.
We’re grateful for folks like Kevin Wideman, who lives south of Deedsville. Kevin walks the trail and cuts back brush when it needs it—no requests, no recognition, just helping out BECAUSE HE CAN. Thanks, Kevin!
Awesome job Mr Wideman!!!
Thank you Kevin. You are appreciated as are everyone else that helps make the trail beautiful.
Thank you!! We really appreciate it!
Above and Beyond!! Thank You!!!
Thank you for all you do!!
Kevin Wideman doing a great job.
Thanks, Kevin!
Awesome
Thanks
Thank you
Thanks Kevin!!!
Thank you!!!
Thank you
Thanks Kevin!
thank you!!
R E M I N D E R 🚴♂️ Celebrate Trails Day – Saturday, April 25!
Start your day with us at the Miami County YMCA (9 AM–12 PM) to learn about the trail, check out the new map, ask questions, and grab some fun trail swag.
Then keep the celebration going—ride the Nickel Plate Trail to Bunker Hill (or drive) for the 2 PM ribbon cutting at Bunker Hill Town Park, celebrating the new 5-mile MAC extension to McGrawsville.
Two events. One great day to hit the trails. Come join us!
Hope you empty the stinky over flowing trash can at lovers lane, peru I msged y'all about, so folks can enjoy sitting on the bench of this beautiful part of the trail.🤷🏼
What a team! 🙌 Final touches are going on the MAC Trail just in time for Saturday’s ribbon cutting.
Huge thanks to volunteers Mike Kuepper, Tim Finster, and Bob Jones for installing the stop signs, and to Gaunt & Son Asphalt for preparing the McGrawsville trailhead parking lot.
We couldn’t have done it without all of you—thank you!
Thanks to all who have a hand in this project!! Such a big blessing for sure 👍!!
How about through Plymouth 😎
Thank you all very much
I noticed parking was a bit limited at the Bunker Hill park. Is it a bit better at McGrawsville? Also what part will the ribbon cutting take place? I may try a half marathon on it if weather holds up.
Thank you all!
Thanks
Any plans on the MAC going towards Amboy?
What is the MAC trail?
Thanks for all your hard work & upkeep on the trail!
How about more parking with trail access points to utilize more of the trail and emptying the smelly offensive overflowing trash cans I messaged y'all about. Thank you
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Celebrate Trails Day is coming Saturday, April 25! The Nickel Plate team will be set up at the Miami County YMCA from 9:00 a.m. until noon.
COME! Learn about the trail. See our new map. Plan your adventure. Ask how you can help --- the list is endless. OH, and I hear there may be some free trail bling!
The festivities are FAR from over. You could drive but even better, jump on your bike and ride the NPT to Bunker Hill. EVERYONE is invited to attend the 2:00 p.m. ribbon cutting at Bunker Hill Town Park, marking the official opening of the new 5-mile MAC extension to McGrawsville.
I can't think of a better way to CELEBRATE TRAILS than to enjoy two of the best - the Nickel Plate Trail and the MAC.
NPT volunteers Tim and Roxanne yesterday and last week worked mowing and cleaning the Wallick Road trailhead. Thanks!
Thank you and God bless you all.
Thank you!🚴♀️
Thank you. Very much appreciated!
Thank you Tim and Roxanne !
Thanks!
To kick off "Celebrate Trails Day" on Saturday, April 25, the NPT team will be at the Miami County YMCA to answer your questions and to brag about our amazing trail.
BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE...!
At 2:00 p.m., join us at Bunker Hill Town Park for the ribbon cutting, marking the official opening of the new 5-mile MAC extension to McGrawsville.
When will the rest of trail bunker hill to grissom be finished
🚴 Meet the Nickel Plate Trail Board of Directors!
They came for the ride — and never left! Pictured here (left to right): Joe Vernon, Steve Gough, Dan McCarthy, Ted Cox, Jeff Kassebaum, and Mike Kuepper. Not pictured: Dave Campbell.
What do they all have in common? Every single one of them discovered the Nickel Plate Trail on a bike and ended up giving their time and talents to help build something special for the whole community. We couldn't be more grateful for their leadership across 46.9 miles of trail connecting Kokomo to Rochester.
We are always looking for new and diverse voices to help shape the future of the NPT. If you're passionate about trails, community, and the outdoors, we'd love to hear from you!
🔗 Learn more at nickelplatetrail.org
#NickelPlateTrail #BoardOfDirectors #RochesterIndiana #TrailLife #Indiana #CommunityTrail #GetInvolved
Thanks isn't enough but we appreciate you all.
Thank you for all your hard work and devotion! 🙌🏼
My gratitude for your labor of love!
Thank you all!
Such an amazing group. Love reading the comments!!! Sooooo motivating when you know the effort is appreciated.
Thank you for the many hours you have donated to this beautiful trail.
Thank you for your commitment!
Thank you all for your commitment!
I selected this trail last year to do a century ride (100 miles). It did not disappoint. The trail was in such great riding condition. THANK YOU! I do wish there had been portapots available in addition to beginning and end so if you fund raise for that, please let us know! Your team is awesome!!!
Thank you for all you do ! You are so appreciated !
Way to go Dan McCarthy! We always need good bike trails.
Thank you for all that you do.
I live 60 miles away so can't be a constant presence but I'm so grateful to these men for providing a safe place for the community to use. Now time to go donate!
If I didn’t live 7 hours away, I would help in one second. I miss the trail dearly. 🚶♂️❤️
They are devoted. A personal testament to their ability and the multitude of hours they spend working, designing, creating and changing the trail. Thank you.
Love that guy on the left. He doesn't even like to walk!
Awesome gentlemen! Fell in riding with Dan one morning on a century while riding tge Great Cycle Challenge for the Children's Cancer Research Fund. He even got my info and donated to the cause❤️
Oh my, thank you all for your amazing dedication on these beautiful bike trails ❣️🚲🚴♀️ I so appreciate everyone of you 😊♥️
A huge thank you to the Fulton County Highway Department for taking time out of their busy schedule to clear brush along the Nickel Plate Trail! Your work keeps our trail safe, beautiful, and enjoyable for everyone. We’re so grateful for this partnership!
Thank you
Thank you to all who volunteer to keep our trail clean. You all do a great job!
Greatly appreciated!!
Nice to see this- the volunteers that maintain the trail can really use this kind of support 👍
Thanks so much!!
A million thanks!
Great job folks!
Have you tried the MAC Trail yet? Pictured here: dedicated volunteers conducting a formal trail survey. Equipment used — bikes. Findings — it’s a really good trail. Further study recommended. The trail currently runs from Bunker Hill Town Park to McGrawsville, and the research team is standing by to investigate it again at any time.
Love this new trail!
I did not know about this trail. Is MAC Trail the Miami central trail in the small map posted above? Is there a web link?
Rode it last summer after it was completed; very nicely done! Pretty easy to connect to Converse on county roads if you study google maps or ridewithgps for a few minutes. Hopefully they'll figure out a way to connect them sometime soon!
Rode on it Thursday
I've rode it 3 times. Smothest trail I,ve been on. It has a few road crossings that are sharp angles and need to be careful of. Also lots of traffic at the high school around 3 oclock. I park at Bunker Hill, go north on Nickel Plate, turn right at park sign turn right at park to start.
Thanks to the dedicated volunteers who took on this TOUGH assignment. 😁
I actually have not. Looks great though! Maybe my next run.
Yes!!! Very nice😊
Yes. I jog it from Maconaquah HS.
Looks great. Can’t wait to try it. How long is it?
It is a great trail, we have ridden it a few times.
Love it
Exactly where is this trail located.
Can't wait to try it!
Nice
On my list
Nice Indiana Trails article about our Nickel Plate Trail Treasurer - Steve Gough
That is cool! 🙂
