Southern Indiana Business Report
The Monon South Trail has been awarded $1 million in federal funds to extend trail construction in Mitchell.
The funds are part of a federal appropriations package recently approved by the US House and includes several other projects in Indiana’s 9th District.
The funding package delivers nearly $7.5 million in Community Project Funding for the 9th District, which is represented by US Rep. Erin Houchin, R-Salem.
“This appropriations package supports the America First agenda by responsibly funding key federal priorities, strengthening our national defense, enhancing border security, and reducing unnecessary federal spending,” said Houchin in a news release. “It also ensures Indiana’s 9th District receives meaningful investments in infrastructure, public safety, and community development. I will continue working to make sure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and that our district’s needs remain a top priority.”
The funds will be used to construct additional trail facilities in downtown Mitchell, including trailhead amenities as well as paving the trail between Warren Street and Grissom Street and improving the grade of the Trail crossing at Main Street.
“Mitchell’s residents are very grateful for this opportunity to finish the construction of the Monon South Trail in our community,” said Mitchell Mayor Don Caudell. “Congresswoman Houchin’s support for this funding will allow us to make the next major investment in improving the quality of life for Mitchell and will give a boost to our efforts to support the local, family-owned businesses in our downtown Main Street district next to the Trail.”
The Monon South Trail is a nearly 60-mile long trail currently under development by Radius Indiana. About 20 miles of trail was completed in 2025.
Community Project Funding for Indiana’s 9th District:
- $4,000,000 — Charlestown Blight Elimination Project
- $1,200,000 — Indiana University 10th Street Safety Improvements
- $1,000,000 — Monon South Trail (Mitchell trail improvements)
- $975,000 — Georgetown State Road 64 Sidewalk Improvements
- $175,000 — Sam Peden Community Park Improvements