Indy Gateway Board Members Rick Proctor and Karlee Macer, along with Executive Director Lisa Bentley, presented the B&O Trail Association with donation of $34,687.
Bentley highlighted that these funds were made possible by the entire west side community and business partners who have participated and sponsored the annual Flap Jacks 5k each year on the westside of Indianapolis hosted by Indy Gateway. The funds from this event have been earmarked to assist in projects that provide connectivity for the B&O Trail between Speedway and Hendricks County. Indy Gateway has provided the B&O Trail Association with past donations from the event, bringing the total amount dedicated to the trail to $42,087.
According to Jeff Smallwood, President of the B&O Trail Association, “This project is an example of how partnerships between different organizations can bring great improvements to the community. This generous donation from Indy Gateway is a critical contribution to our match for the Next Level Trail project. The project is a perfect example of the connectivity that trails provide, as it brings together Hendricks County, Marion County, the Town of Speedway, and the near west side of Indianapolis.”
The 2022 Flap Jacks 5K is scheduled for Aug. 6, and advertising opportunities are available for the 7th year for this community event. More than 400 participants are expected. Sponsors for the event are currently being sought and encouraged to maximize marketing opportunities by confirming sponsorship by the final deadline for printing and website inclusion on March 18. For more information or to direct questions regarding sponsorship to Connie Harris, Outreach Coordinator, of Indy Gateway at outreachcoordinator@indygateway.org.
