🎯 Mission
“Nickel Plate Trail Inc. connects people to nature and to each other, enhancing the well-being of our communities through accessible, well-maintained trails.”
🌟 Vision
“A thriving, connected region where everyone can enjoy nature, build community, and experience the health, wellness, and economic benefits of shared trails.”
⚒ Strategies
1. Trail Maintenance & Safety
- Ongoing upkeep of trail surfaces, signage, bridges, and trailheads to ensure safe, accessible experiences.
- Periodic inspections and repairs of key infrastructure along the corridor.
2. Future Expansion & Connectivity
- Bunker Hill → Grissom Air Museum: Work underway to extend the trail west, increasing access to a major regional destination.
- Long-Term Vision: Extend the corridor to connect the Nickel Plate Trail with the Panhandle Pathway; and, southeast to the Cardinal Greenways, enabling long-distance travel, tourism, and regional economic development.
- Focus on linking multiple communities into a broader, interconnected trail network.
3. Community Engagement & Volunteers
- Recruit, train, and recognize volunteers for maintenance, trail events, and advocacy.
- Partner with schools, civic groups, and local organizations to foster stewardship and community ownership.
4. Funding & Partnerships
- Secure federal, state, and private grants to support trail construction, maintenance, and expansion.
- Build relationships with corporate sponsors, foundations, and local businesses to provide financial and in-kind support.
5. Promotion, Education & Regional Recognition
- Promote trail use and highlight wellness, recreational, and economic benefits.
- Leverage designations in national trail systems (Great American Rail-Trail, American Discovery Trail, U.S. Bicycle Route 35) to raise visibility and attract users, sponsors, and visitors.