Spurred by an Elkhart County Parks Master Plan from 1978 and the vision of some local individuals, the Pumpkinvine Nature Trail was created to replicate the experience of biking through scenic landscapes similar to paths found in Illinois, Wisconsin and the Netherlands. This trail, which has been in development for more than 20 years, follows the corridor of an abandoned railroad track from which the trail gets its name.
JPR had the pleasure of helping complete this vision by providing the development of construction documents and permitting for a section of trail that stretched between County Road 20 and County Road 33, extending for almost one mile.
The alignment of the trail was designed to protect existing wetland areas found along the side of the proposed section, while also providing a safe, scenic experience for users. The design included a pedestrian bridge for bike and trail users, and a wooden overpass that can accommodate heavy machinery.
JPR’s team is proud to have had the opportunity to work on such a historical and meaningful project for this community.