The LINK Trail, a new pedestrian and bicycle trail linking South Bend to the University of Notre Dame, opened Nov. 7.
“LINK” symbolizes the collaboration and connectivity between the two destinations. The trail stretches approximately 1.5 miles from downtown to the university. A leisurely walk along the trail takes about 30 minutes.
“Connecting these centers of culture and commerce will create a more vibrant community,” Mayor James Mueller said in a press release. “I am grateful to our partners, the University of Notre Dame and Visit South Bend Mishawaka for investing in this new, beautiful LINK trail.”
The trail starts at LaSalle Ave. and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. It takes pedestrians and bicyclists east on LaSalle Ave., north on Hill St., then northeast on South Bend Ave. to join Notre Dame Ave. The trail culminates at the intersection of Angela Blvd. and Notre Dame Ave. From there, users can access the University of Notre Dame campus or join the multi-use path along Angela Blvd.
“As the name implies, this new trail will serve as an important link between downtown South Bend and the University of Notre Dame, helping improve access to both locations while promoting health and recreation, spurring economic development and contributing to a more safe, livable and walkable community,” Shannon Cullinan, University of Notre Dame executive vice president, said. “The name also speaks to our shared future as a university and community.”
The project was funded jointly by the city, Hotel-Motel Tax Board via Visit South Bend Mishawaka and the University of Notre Dame.
“The LINK Trail will be a destination for visitors to South Bend as they look to explore the county’s number one attraction in the University of Notre Dame,” Jeff Jarnecke, Visit South Bend Mishawaka executive director, said. “The LINK will also serve as a welcoming path for students, faculty and staff to explore, engage and experience more of what South Bend has to offer and to help make their time in South Bend even more memorable.”
An official ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for Spring 2025.
