Ribbon Cutting Dedicates Tribe Trail in New Hampton

A ribbon cutting Wednesday (10.16) marked the essential completion of the Tribe Trail in New Hampton. The ceremony was conducted at the trail’s intersection with South Western Avenue in representation of the third and final phase of the project connecting the Chickasaw Wellness Center on the west side of town to South Linn Avenue (Business Highway 69) on the south side of New Hampton. 

Megan Baltes has been involved with the project since its inception in 2016.

Former Mayor Bobby Schwickerath commended Baltes and the Tribe Trail Committee in overcoming challenges along the way, including the COVID pandemic.

Current Mayor Steve Geerts cut the ribbon to declare the trail completed.

Baltes estimated the total price tag for the project between $1.4 and $1.5 million dollars, with about $900,000 of the cost covered through grants. The remaining funds came from donors,  many to be recognized with a donor board that will be erected at the trailhead in Mikkelson Park.