The Village of Montpelier recognizes the opportunity to enhance the economic viability of the area by expanding trail and on‐road facilities to points of interest within the community. The goal of the Village of Montpelier for Active Transportation is to expand on the existing trail within the County (Wabash Cannonball Trail), and to create a network of trails where walking and bicycling are safe, convenient and provide viable transportation and recreation options for residents of all ages and skill levels. These improvements will lead to enhanced economic development opportunities by supporting existing businesses as well as opening new business opportunities for entrepreneurs.

The plan includes existing trails, current projects and proposed improvements. As seen on the mapping, there is an emphasis on routes. The recommended facilities include on‐road facilities (signed bike routes, shared lanes, marked shared lanes, paved shoulders and bike lanes) and separated facilities (shared use paths, rails to trails) with a need for bicycle/pedestrian bridges, intersection improvements, trail access improvements and other accommodations to create a safe environment and serve the needs of pedestrians and cyclists. The plan also includes recommendations to consider for the trail system such as trail amenities (wayfinding, bicycle parking and trail hubs) and the consideration of emergency access and trail safety. Educating the public, both drivers and cyclists, on bicycle laws, bicycle safety and the proper way to ride on the road, is a critical step in the implementation of this plan.

Proposed routes and improvements have been broken down into separate project areas based on input from the public meeting, steering committee and existing transportation planning documents:

• Iron Horse River Trail
• Veteran’s Memorial Trail/Extension of Wabash Cannonball Trail
• North-South Bike Route
• Ohio State Bicycle Route Signage
• School Connector
• Cross Walk Improvements
• Infrastructure

The full Active Transportation Plan is available by clicking the link below: