New Trails Make Key Connections

Two important projects will soon enable uninterrupted trail system access to most of Plainfield. The Stanley Road Trail project is essentially complete, open, and ready for use, according to Parks Director Clay Chafin, while the final segments of the Vandalia Trail should be completed in November.

The Stanley Road project, which was completed in conjunction with a stormwater system upgrade, extends nearly a half mile from Southfield Drive to Charles Court. Chafin reports that the trail also includes a new pedestrian bridge over the east fork of White Lick Creek on Stanley Road. “The trail is an important connector for westside residents because it creates pedestrian access to schools, parks and commercial areas,” he said. According to Chafin, construction work for the Stanley Road Trail project began in the spring, and was completed under budget.

The Vandalia Trail, which is the primary east/west corridor from Saratoga Parkway to Dan Jones Road, will also soon be completed, bringing the total length of the trail to nearly 4 miles. When the remaining east and west segments are finished, the trail along the former Vandalia Railroad right-of-way will complete the Plainfield portion of the National Road Heritage Trail. Fully realized, thattrail will parallel U.S. 40 and extend from Richmond to Terre Haute. The Town of Plainfield used a $500,000 grant from the State of Indiana to fund the Vandalia project.

“In all, the Town of Plainfield will soon have approximately 20 miles of interlinked trails, including sidewalk connectors,” Chafin said. “Now we can turn our attention to other Master Plan items as we continually seek to improve our trails and greenways system.” Among planned enhancements are directory and milestone signs along certain trails.

Chafin noted that the Buchanan Street Trail was also recently completed, with work done “in-house” as a cost-saving measure. For more information about Plainfield's Trails and Greenways system, contact Chafin at 839-7665

Splash Island Breaks Records, Plans for Future

Splash Island at Plainfield Recreation Center enjoyed another record breaking year in 2008, with 120,000 visitors - an all-time high- enjoying summer fun and programs close to home. According to Nate Thorne, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation, Splash Island was so popular that guests had to be turned away on several days due to the facility being at full capacity. To address this issue, the Plainfield Town Council has authorized development of a master plan for expansion, and will consider design alternatives early in 2009. “We are confident that we can increase capacity to serve as many as 800 additional guests each day,” Thorne said. He added that costs of the expansion can be largely offset by the additional revenue generated by serving more members and guests.

Additional facilities and resources could also permit further expansion of programs. In 2008, for example, guests often enjoyed entertainment and value-added performances, including six on-site broadcasts by Radio Disney. The facility also increased the number of swim lesson and swim team programs, and added extra Wet Wednesday night swims. Milder days also added to the enjoyment of Splash Island amenities in 2008, as many guests often stayed longer at the facility.

With summer over, Plainfield residents and out-of-area visitors can still enjoy all the year-round amenities of the Recreation Center, including Splash Island Indoor Aquatic Center, as well as the Natatorium at Clark's Creek Middle School. The Fall/Winter aquatics program guide is now available and can be viewed online at www.townofplainfield.com in the Parks and Recreation Department section. For additional information on facilities, programs and rates, call 839-POOL.

Recreation Center Rates
(As of October 1, 2008)

Daily Rates

3-Month Memberships

Guests must show a valid ID to receive Resident Rate. For other rates, contact Nate Thorne at 839-7665