Southwestern Michigan College Upgrades Roadrunner Trails

New flexible trail markers and digital maps enhance safety and accessibility of popular running routes.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 2:30am

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a wooded trail, with the figures of runners barely visible through the soft, hazy light and blurred foliage.The upgraded Roadrunner Trails at Southwestern Michigan College provide a serene, nature-filled setting for runners and walkers to enjoy.Dowagiac Today

Southwestern Michigan College has upgraded its Roadrunner Trails with new flexible trail markers that are designed to spring upright if struck, as well as improved signage and plans for digital mapping. The project was led by cross country and track coach Zac Sartori and funded by over 200 community donors, honoring former Athletic Director Ron Gunn with a commemorative bench.

Why it matters

The Roadrunner Trails are a popular outdoor recreation resource for both athletes and the general public in the Dowagiac community. The upgrades improve the safety, usability, and accessibility of the trail system, which has been in place for decades, ensuring it can continue serving the community for years to come.

The details

The new flexible trail markers are color-coded to denote five different routes totaling 8-9 miles. The improved signage helps both athletes and the public stay on track after years of wear and fading markers. The project was fully funded by over 200 community donors who contributed more than $5,000.

  • The trail upgrades were completed in spring 2026.

The players

Zac Sartori

The current cross country and track coach at Southwestern Michigan College who led the trail upgrade project.

Ron Gunn

The former Athletic Director at Southwestern Michigan College, whom the commemorative bench at the trailhead honors.

Thom Janssen

A representative of the SMC Foundation, which helped coordinate the community fundraising effort.

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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

Sartori plans to add digital maps using QR codes and apps like AllTrails, making the decades-old trail system more accessible than ever.

The takeaway

The Roadrunner Trails upgrades demonstrate how a community can come together to preserve and enhance an important local recreational resource, ensuring it remains safe, usable, and accessible for generations to come.