St. Joseph County Unveils Portage Manor Trails

On Saturday, June 15, 2024, St. Joseph County residents will have the unique opportunity to explore the newly developed Portage Manor Trails, thanks to the dedicated efforts of County Commissioner Derek Dieter. The trails will be open to the public from 9 AM to 5 PM, offering a fresh breath of nature and a peek into an ambitious redevelopment project.

Portage Manor, which closed its doors on July 31, 2023, has been a topic of heated discussions and various opinions regarding its future. The 10,000 square foot building and 120 acres of property have long been under the public eye, with many speculating about its fate. However, with recent developments, residents should feel safer that the cherished property won't be handed over to land developers. That's certainly not Commissioner Derek Dieter's plan.

Commissioner Derek Dieter has invested substantial personal effort and rallied support from a team of young men from the Ducomb Center, a local residential correctional facility, to clear and forge trails throughout the 120-acre property. This initiative aims to preserve the Portage Manor grounds and its ecosystems for public enjoyment and ecological preservation.

Commissioner Derek Dieter's vision for the property focuses on retaining its natural beauty and making it accessible to the community, a sentiment that should be appreciated and resonate with the public.

Redress South Bend had the privilege of interviewing several volunteers from the Ducomb Center who participated in the trail-clearing efforts. Their sentiments highlight the project's positive impact:

"I get to tell my kids that I was a part of this and all the great guys we got working with us," shared one participant. Another stated, "Really just giving back, you know, getting out of there, I mean, getting this fresh air and enjoying this hot sun and doing some work with my hands."

Commissioner Derek Dieter with his team from the Ducomb Center

These testimonials underscore the transformative power of the Portage Manor trails project—not just for the land and its future visitors, but for those who have contributed to its realization. The young men from the Ducomb Center expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to work outdoors and give back to the community, while also gaining valuable hands-on experience.

As the public prepares to explore the Portage Manor Trails, it’s clear that this initiative represents more than just a recreational area. It embodies a community's dedication to preserving its natural heritage, supporting rehabilitation efforts, and fostering a sense of shared purpose.