Adding to over 4,200 miles of public trails in Indiana, Muncie’s 1.2-mile Riverside Trail runs between Tillotson Avenue at Christy Woods and Morrison Road to the roundabout.
Born from a 2019 Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Next Level Trails grant with support from the Delaware Advancement Corporation, the project included stormwater improvements, reconstruction of Riverside Avenue, and the planting of over 80 native trees. With a total investment nearing $4 million, 98% of the funding originated from federal, state, and local grants.
Trail proponents envisioned a prime opportunity in an area of Muncie that lacked public parks, sidewalks and trails. “There are many of us who are in favor of the trail project for the health and safety of the neighbors, and citizens who already use that segment of Riverside Avenue for walking, bicycling, and pushing their children in strollers,” said Dlynn Melo, former Gatewood Neighborhood Association president.
Despite a “Stop the Trail” campaign from over 30 homeowners concerned with loss of trees, property encroachment, and potential for loitering and crime, Riverside Trail hosted a ribbon cutting on November 15, 2023. Its one-year anniversary is just around the corner.
Trail Destinations – How Do I Get There From Here?
Catalina Swim Club: Cross over at McKenzie Road and follow the convenient sidewalk to the pool.
Saddlebrook Estates: This gated community is located right off the trail across from Willow Lake.
Willow Lake Condominiums: Across from the trail on Morrison.
Robinwood Place/Robinwood Estates: The trail leads directly into Robinwood Place at Robinwood Drive. Cross over Petty into Robinwood Estates at Bob-O-Link Drive.
Lantern Park: Take the trail to the Morrison/Petty intersection and turn west.
Walmart/Lowe’s/Ollie’s/UPS Store/American National Bank: The trail transitions to a sidewalk the remainder of the way to these retailers. Heron Point resident Jon Moll often starts at Walmart, catching the trail to Christy Woods and back again.
Going west on the trail?
All within easy access are Christy Woods, Charles Brown Planetarium, BSU Campus, the Village, and downtown. Minnetrista trail will take you to Craddock Wetlands and environs. Jump on Cardinal Greenway for a longer trip.
