Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land Acquisition topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Porter County board discusses 160-acre Hudson donation, 'bridge park' vision along Kankakee River
Summary
Board members described a potential donation of about 160 acres from landowner John Hudson and discussed using the land for a riverside 'bridge park' with restored iron bridges, trail connections and partnerships; much of the parcel is in a federal wetland program limiting construction.
Board members discussed a possible donation of roughly 160 acres from landowner John Hudson and sketched a vision to turn parts of the parcel into a riverside “bridge park.” Committee member said the parcel straddles the Kankakee River, that "75 of it is wooded" and that "100 of the 160 acres is locked in federal wetland reserve program, WRP, and that ain't coming out of that," which would limit where construction could occur.
The presenter explained the site offers a high point on the southern bank suitable for parking, restrooms and trailheads, and described a plan to reassemble preserved iron bridges on the property as attractions. "He has Bridge Number 2 on his property, disassembled, preserved, with all the instructions for how to reassemble it," the presenter said, and noted an MOU from Lake County that could help fund restoration.
Board members flagged partnerships and trail connections as central to the plan. The presenter suggested collaboration with the Kankakee River Basin Development Commission to create a trail from the Hudson property downriver to Dunn's Bridge and said Indiana Landmarks and a local historical society have contacts that could support bridge preservation. A committee member identified Scott P. Lapp as a Kankakee River Basin contact to invite for further discussion.
On timing and conveyance, the presenter said Hudson intends to include the property in his will but is open to donating portions sooner (excluding his home). The attorney reiterated that no deed transfer had been recorded and that the church/other parcels mentioned elsewhere remain under current ownership until a quitclaim or deed appears; the board agreed to continue outreach and bring formal proposals back when the land transfer details are clear.
Board members discussed maintenance and operating implications: trails and limited parking were described as low‑cost additions while bridge reassembly and long‑term maintenance would likely be contracted. Members also suggested referencing the acquisition in the parks master plan to reflect the potential future property and to guide community expectations. The board directed staff and the facilities committee to continue negotiations and return with formal recommendations when legal conveyance information is available.
