Evansville Department of Parks and Recreation and Evansville Area Trails Coalition (ETC) Solidify Years of Collaboration with Formal Partnership

EVANSVILLE, INDIANA – October 18, 2023 – After years of collaboration, the Evansville Department of Parks and Recreation and the Evansville Area Trails Coalition, Inc. (ETC) are thrilled to announce a formal partnership. The agreement was approved at today’s Board of Parks Commissioners meeting.

This alliance between the Evansville Department of Parks and Recreation and ETC promises a mutual commitment to the promotion, expansion, and preservation of Evansville’s Greenway Trails System. Together, they aim to create an even more inviting and linked urban trail system, fostering a deeper connection between residents and opportunities for active living and nonmotorized transportation options.

A highlight of this agreement allows ETC to relocate to the lower level of The Pagoda pavilion, a prime location along the Greenway. This pivotal move exemplifies a commitment to trail stewardship, increased accessibility, and enhanced experiences for both residents and visitors.

“Our collaboration with ETC goes beyond a shared vision for the Greenway,” said Steve Schaefer, Deputy Mayor and Parks & Recreation interim Executive Director. “It brings to life the goals we envisioned in our 2023 Master Plan, and marks a new chapter in our city’s commitment to connectivity and wellness.”

“This partnership is a dream come true for everyone who has been working tirelessly to expand our trails network and sustain it as a source of pride for our community,” said ETC Executive Director Lorie Van Hook. “We look forward to a bright future where our trails become an integral part of the city’s identity.”

Together, the Department of Parks and Recreation and ETC will collaborate to ensure effective trail planning, development, and prioritize the expansion of the trail network. They are committed to fostering a greater sense of community, environmental stewardship, and overall well-being for all residents.

To celebrate this partnership, the agencies will be hosting a series of annual events, including trail clean-up activities, educational trail programs, and group urban hikes. The public is encouraged to get involved and experience the benefits of the trail system firsthand.

For more information about the partnership and upcoming events, please visitwww.walkbikeevv.org and https://www.evansville.in.gov/parks.

For press inquiries, please reach out to: Steve Schaefer, Deputy Mayor and interim Parks & Recreation Executive Director (812)436-4962 SSCHAEFER@EVANSVILLE.IN.GOV

Lorie Van Hook, Executive Director, Evansville-Area Trails Coalition (812)480-7598 LAVANHOOK@WALKBIKEEVV.ORG

About Evansville Department of Parks and Recreation:
Committed to establishing, fostering, and conserving dynamic parks and green spaces, the Evansville Department of Parks and Recreation stands as a beacon for quality of life. Their mission champions a blend of fun, fitness, and education for all Evansville residents.

About ETC:
ETC, a pivotal nonprofit, is on a mission to connect communities, advocate for multiuse trails, and champion active lifestyles. Their primary goal orbits around enhancing trails for both recreational and transportation purposes, coupled with a commitment to environmental care. By collaborating with community figureheads, ETC tirelessly endeavors to expand the Evansville Greenway both locally and regionally.