By HOLLY GASKILL
Eight days remain for Wells County Trails to hit their fundraising goal for a paddlesports launch site in Vera Cruz.
As of print, nearly $40,000 of their group’s $50,000 goal has been raised. The launch site will be located on the northwest side of the Ind. 301 bridge in Vera Cruz. The space falls between existing launch sites in Linn Grove and at the White Bridge in Bluffton, creating two separate 3-hour pathways for various paddlesports.
Wells County Trails has received a $50,000 matching grant from the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, contingent on the group’s ability to fundraise matching grants for the project. The project is also eligible for $5,000 in matching funds from AARP Indiana.
The fundraising campaign will close at 11 p.m. on Jan. 11.
The construction project requires several components, as outlined by the group’s fundraising campaign. First, the group will prepare the site for construction according to permits.
A concrete ramp on the bank will allow users to safely enter and exit the water, improving access where the bank is steep and muddy. A driveway will connect the ramp to a grass parking area, following an existing ATV path with enough space for vehicles to pass and turn around.
Wells County Trails, the Wells County Foundation, the town of Vera Cruz, and the Wells County Commissioners have partnered together on the project.
Donations can be made through the group’s fundraising website, patronicity.com/VCPaddlesportsLaunch, or dropped off at Wells County Trails, 211 Water St. in Bluffton. All donations are tax-deductible.
Questions or inquiries can be directed to Area Plan Commission Executive Director Mike Lautzenheiser, 260-820-1671.
holly@news-banner.com
