Phase II Ribbon Cutting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Parke Trails Alliance Celebrates Completion of Phase II of the Parke County Rail TrailRibbon Cutting Scheduled for July 14 in Rosedale
ROSEDALE, Ind. – The Parke Trails Alliance (PTA) invites the public, community partners, elected officials, and trail enthusiasts to celebrate a major milestone in the development of the Parke Community Rail Trail with the official ribbon-cutting for Phase II on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the trailhead located at 7598 South Catlin Road, Rosedale, Indiana.
Phase II adds approximately 2.5 miles of new trail connecting Jessup to Catlin, bringing Parke County one step closer to realizing a countywide trail network that links communities, enhances recreation opportunities, and preserves local history.
The centerpiece of this new section is one of the most anticipated features of the entire project: a beautifully restored historic bridge that once served as an important part of Parke County's transportation infrastructure. Trail users will now have the opportunity to experience this remarkable structure firsthand while enjoying scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
"This project represents years of planning, partnership, and community support. Phase II demonstrates what can happen when volunteers, local governments, landowners, donors, and trail advocates work together toward a shared vision. We are excited to welcome the public to experience this incredible addition to the Parke Community Rail Trail," Parke Trails Alliance Project Manager Mark Davis said.
The celebration will include:

• Welcome remarks from PTA President Terry Aders
  
• A ceremonial ribbon cutting
  
• Recognition of project partners, supporters, and elected officials
  
• An opportunity to be among the first to walk the new trail section
  
• Guided discussion of the historic bridge and its significance to the county's transportation history
  

Visitors are encouraged to bring their bicycles or walking shoes and explore the newest section of trail following the ceremony. The route offers a unique glimpse into the ongoing transformation of former railroad corridors into community assets that support recreation, tourism, economic development, and healthy lifestyles.
The Parke Community Rail Trail has become one of the county's most ambitious quality-of-life projects, creating new opportunities for residents and visitors to experience the natural beauty, history, and small-town charm that make Parke County unique.
Parking will be available at the trailhead, with designated spaces, ADA-accessible parking, and additional parking via an open-access gate.
Event DetailsWhat: Parke County Rail Trail Phase II Ribbon Cutting
When: Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
Where: 7598 South Catlin Road, Rosedale, Indiana
About Parke Trails AllianceThe Parke Trails Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to developing, promoting, and maintaining a countywide trail network that connects communities, preserves local history, encourages healthy lifestyles, and enhances economic opportunities throughout Parke County.