NineStar Park Trail named as grant recipient

Friday, May 29, 2026 at 7:53 AM

By Staff report

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently announced recipients of Indiana Trails Program (ITP) grants, awarding $1.7 million in trail development assistance to five communities across the state.

With local matching funds included, the program will support nearly $3.3 million in total investment resulting in 4.12 miles of new trail construction.

“Outdoor recreation is core to our heritage as Hoosiers, with trails making important connections to health and nature,” said Governor Mike Braun. “These trail projects will be excellent additions to their communities.”

ITP is a biennial grant program dedicated to expanding and enhancing Indiana’s network of trails to support outdoor recreation, community connectivity, economic development, and quality of life. DNR received 31 applications requesting nearly $11 million in funding, demonstrating strong statewide demand for new and expanded trail infrastructure.

The grant recipients include Hancock County's NineStar Park Trail. $376,496 is to be used to facilitate 0.75 miles.

Project schedules vary, but construction could begin as early as this summer, with the first trail expected to open in October 2026.