Even though the second phase of the Lake Max Trail in Culver has been modified to accommodate residents on Plymouth Street, those residents are still against moving forward with the project. 

Town Council President Ginny Bess Munroe recapped her discussions with affected residents with the town council this week.  She met with neighbors on Plymouth Street since the council’s last meeting where several people spoke out against the project.  She explained that portions of the trail were narrowed even further so residents could still enjoy lawn space.  The designs were updated to reflect those adjustments. 

However, Dave Arzola, who lives on Plymouth Street, read aloud from a letter supported by affected neighbors that they remain opposed to the project and ask that it either be moved down Main Street or the project be dropped.   

“Of those now learning of this plan of today, over 85, have adamantly indicated their opposition and only one person has indicated that they support this trail as planned,” stated Arzola.  “We submit this letter of opposition to the town council and ask that a special meeting be convened by the town to allow all affected and concerned citizens to voice their concerns appropriately.  We ask that this meeting be convened at a time convenient to most people with ample and sufficient notice provided.”

He complained that there was no notice given about the project, but Munroe commented that there were opportunities for the public to comment on the project.

Munroe stated, “We did have public hearings, we met requirements on meetings, we advertised in the paper, we advertised on TGL, we advertised on social media, we did go out of our way to advertise meetings.  They’re documented.  We’re doing our best to continue getting feedback while we still can.  We spent money to get design changes made to accommodate people.  That right now is the best that we can do.”

Munroe said she would contact INDOT to see if there is a possibility that an extension of the project could be granted in order to accommodate more discussion.  If the project is canceled completely, the town would need to return the grant money awarded for the second phase of the trail and would lose the funds already spent for the project. 

After a lengthy discussion, the council agreed to hold a special meeting on Tuesday, May 4 at 6:30 p.m. ET at Culver Town Hall to go over more information on the trail.