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Dowagiac Today
By the People, for the People
Southwestern Michigan College Trails Receive New Markers
Flexible trail markers installed to improve navigation and honor former Athletic Director Ron Gunn.
Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:00am
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The newly upgraded Roadrunner Trails at Southwestern Michigan College offer a peaceful natural escape for runners, walkers, and the local community.Dowagiac TodaySouthwestern Michigan College has installed new flexible trail markers across its popular Roadrunner Trails on the Dowagiac campus. The project, led by cross country and track coach Zac Sartori, aims to make the trails easier to navigate after years of wear and fading markers. The system now includes five color-coded routes totaling around 8-9 miles with improved signage to help both athletes and the public.
Why it matters
The trail upgrades not only improve safety and usability for the community, but also celebrate the lasting legacy of former Athletic Director Ron Gunn, who the project honors. The college hopes the new markers and future digital mapping will make the decades-old trail system more accessible than ever.
The details
The new flexible trail markers are designed to spring upright if struck. The project was fully funded by over 200 community donors who contributed more than $5,000. A commemorative bench has also been installed at the trailhead in Gunn's honor. Next, coach Zac Sartori plans to add digital maps using QR codes and apps like AllTrails to further modernize the trail system.
- The trail marker project was completed in March 2026, just in time for spring.
The players
Zac Sartori
The current cross country and track coach at Southwestern Michigan College who led the trail marker project.
Ron Gunn
The former Athletic Director at Southwestern Michigan College, whom the trail marker project honors.
Southwestern Michigan College
The college that owns and maintains the Roadrunner Trails where the new markers have been installed.
Thom Janssen
A representative from the SMC Foundation, which helped coordinate the community fundraising effort for the trail marker project.
What they’re saying
“The goal of the trail markers was to make the trails easier to navigate after years of wear and fading markers.”
— Zac Sartori, Cross country and track coach
What’s next
The college plans to add digital maps using QR codes and apps like AllTrails to further modernize the trail system and make it more accessible to the public.
The takeaway
The Roadrunner Trails at Southwestern Michigan College have received a much-needed upgrade with new flexible trail markers that improve navigation and safety, while also honoring the legacy of former Athletic Director Ron Gunn. This community-funded project demonstrates the college's commitment to providing accessible outdoor recreation for students and the public.
