Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) in partnership with Clay Township, Hamilton County, Delaware Township, and the City of Fishers, will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of the new Bur Oak Bridge at Hazel Landing Park.
Spanning 500 feet across the White River, the 14-foot-wide pedestrian and bicycle bridge connects Hazel Landing Park in Carmel with Heritage Park in Fishers, creating a vital new link in Central Indiana’s growing regional trail network.
Designed for both beauty and functionality, the Bur Oak Bridge enhances recreational access, offering a scenic and convenient route for walkers, runners, and cyclists. It also forms a seamless connection among the Monon Trail, Big-4 Rail Trail, Nickel Plate Trail, and White River Greenway—creating one of the most extensive and interconnected trail systems in the Midwest.
“Clay Township’s investment in the Bur Oak Bridge reflects our commitment to building impactful projects that serve both local residents and the broader region. This bridge will stand as a symbol of collaboration, linking trails, communities, and people. We are excited to see the countless ways it will enhance recreation, mobility, and connection along the White River corridor,” said Paul Hensel, Clay Township Trustee.
The $11 million project was made possible through a collaborative regional investment, with funding contributions from:
- Clay Township – $5 million through its Impact Program
- Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation – $3 million
- Hamilton County – $1.6 million
- Delaware Township – $1.3 million
- City of Fishers – $400,000
“Delaware Township is proud to play a role in bringing the Bur Oak Bridge to life. This project not only provides our residents with new opportunities to connect with nature and each other, but it also strengthens the bond between our communities. By investing in this bridge, we are investing in regional connectivity, health, and quality of life for generations to come,” said Debbie Driskell, Delaware Township Trustee.
The name “Bur Oak Bridge” honors the ecological and cultural significance of the native Bur Oak tree, selected in consultation with representatives from the Miami, Delaware/Lenape, Shawnee, and Peoria tribes. Interpretive signage at both ends of the bridge will tell the story of the White River’s natural and cultural history, fostering a deeper connection to the land and its Indigenous heritage.
“This bridge represents our commitment to caring for this land and honoring its stories,” said Michael Klitzing, Director/CEO of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation. “It’s more than a structure – it’s a reminder of our role as thoughtful stewards of the White River Corridor.”
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Details
Hazel Landing Park – 10601 Hazel Dell Parkway, Carmel, IN
Monday, October 20, 2025
3 p.m.
The event is open to the public and will mark not only the debut of the Bur Oak Bridge opening but also the reopening of Hazel Landing Park, which had been temporarily closed during construction.
