2028-2029 WATERMAIN & STREET RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT OPEN HOUSE
BOARDMAN, WASHINGTON, CASS, AND STATE

The City is beginning the preliminary design phase of a significant infrastructure improvement project that will replace aging water and sanitary sewer infrastructure and reconstruct portions of Boardman Avenue, Washington Street, Cass Street, State Street, and the public alley west of Cass Street.

As design gets underway, the City is inviting the community to learn more about the project and provide input at a Community Open House on Tuesday, October 20, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. in the 2nd Floor Training Room at the Governmental Center, 400 Boardman Avenue.

More Than Underground Infrastructure

While replacing aging utilities is a key component of the project, reconstruction provides an opportunity to consider how people move through and experience these streets.

The project team is evaluating potential improvements for walking, biking, transit access, and accessibility. This includes bicycle facilities identified in the City's Mobility Action Plan, pedestrian safety improvements, traffic-calming measures, and upgraded stormwater infrastructure.

Community Open House

At the open house, community members will have an opportunity to learn about the project, review proposed street cross-sections and design concepts, and share feedback on concerns, challenges, and opportunities that should be considered as the design moves forward.

Tuesday, October 20, 2026

4:00–6:00 p.m.

Governmental Center – 2nd Floor Training Room

400 Boardman Avenue

A community survey will also be available to provide an additional opportunity for input. Feedback gathered during this preliminary design phase will help inform design decisions as the project moves forward.

FALL LOOSE LEAF PICK UP

BEGINS OCTOBER 19

The Fall Loose Leaf Pick-Up will begin Monday, October 19 in City neighborhoods, starting on the west side and moving eastward over 5 to 7 weekdays. Crews will then return to the west side to repeat the process. Please do not place leaves in the street before October 16.

The City has a progression map that divides the City into six zones for efficient service. Leaf collection will begin on the west side in Zone 1 and progress eastward through all zones. Residents can view the map to identify their zone and prepare for leaf pickup accordingly. Due to weather conditions and the unpredictability of leaf fall, exact dates for each zone's pickup will not be provided. The City encourages residents to be ready by having their leaves gathered before collection starts in their zone.

Progress updates will be announced via social media and will also be available on the interactive map on the City's Leaf Pickup webpage. While crews may clean streets outside the scheduled zone to finish up the day, if they are not officially picking up in that zone, they will return at the appropriate time. This zoned approach will help ensure timely and effective leaf removal across the City.

Pick Up on Streets under Construction 

For those residing on Monroe between Randolph and Front Street, place leaves in the alley for pickup. Leaves should be placed in the street once the construction is completed. 

Fun Fact: The City’s Loose Leaf Pick-Up program prevents leaves from ending up in landfills and catch basins. The leaves are composted, turned into rich screened topsoil, and used by the Parks Division for flower beds!

A GREENER WAY OF LIFE

FALL CLEAN UP

Switching to electric lawn equipment is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Unlike gas-powered tools or single-stroke engines, electric equipment reduces emissions, helping to lower air pollution and your carbon footprint. It's also much quieter, reducing noise pollution in your neighborhood! With no risk of fuel spills or leaks, and requiring less maintenance, electric tools are a cleaner and more efficient choice for lawn care. Making the switch supports a greener and quieter way of life!

TCLP Engery Rewards Program

Traverse City Light & Power has a residential rebate program to help customers save energy and money. As fall cleanup is underway, rebates are offered on a wide variety of energy-saving products including electric lawn equipment.

The program is designed specifically for our area to help you save money, save energy, and help save our environment through your own conservation.

Learn More

Use Leaves For The Good!

Leaving fall leaves on your lawn supports a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle. Instead of raking, mulching leaves into your grass has several environmental benefits:

• Natural fertilizer: Decomposing leaves provide nutrients, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and promoting healthier grass.
• Weed prevention: Mulched leaves cover bare spots, helping to prevent weeds like dandelions and crabgrass.
• Less waste: By skipping the raking and disposal, you reduce waste and save time.
• Garden boost: Excess leaves can be used as mulch around garden beds, trees, and shrubs, improving soil health and reducing weeds.

This approach benefits both the environment and your lawn.

Learn More

CITY BUILDS UPON SAFETY MEASURES

HULL PARK

The City is increasing public safety measures at Hull Park in response to recent incidents and ongoing concerns in the area, building upon efforts already in place to support a safe and welcoming public space.

City leadership, the Traverse City Police Department (TCPD), and the Parks and Recreation Department recently met with representatives from Traverse Area Community Sailing (TACS) and other interested parties to hear concerns and discuss conditions in and around Hull Park. City staff have also conducted additional site visits to evaluate conditions and identify opportunities to enhance safety and the overall park user experience.

Additional Safety Measures

Building upon existing efforts, the City is taking several additional steps at Hull Park:

• Increasing TCPD visibility in and around Hull Park, while balancing calls for service and public safety priorities throughout the City.
• Connecting individuals with services and resources through regional service providers and the City's RESILIENCE Program, particularly individuals who experience recurring interactions with law enforcement.
• Making targeted modifications to the park consistent with Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPED) principles to improve visibility and the overall park environment.
• Installing City-owned security cameras and signage notifying park users of camera presence.
• Coordinating with TACS on security improvements, including repositioning existing cameras and lighting improvements to TACS buildings.
• Establishing a direct communication channel between TCPD and designated TACS representatives to improve coordination and timely sharing of information.

TCPD's embedded Social Worker Program will continue to be an important component of the City's response, helping connect individuals experiencing homelessness with available services and resources. Recently, four individuals experiencing homelessness at Hull Park expressed interest in participating in the RESILIENCE Program, which brings together law enforcement, social workers, and community partners to connect individuals with services and support.

Hull Park remains open and available to all members of the community, regardless of housing status. The City's response remains focused on addressing behaviors and incidents rather than broadly attributing public safety concerns to people experiencing homelessness.

Additional Tools Under Consideration

The City Commission is expected to consider two ordinance amendments in October that, procedurally, could become effective as soon as October 29, 2026. The proposed ordinances are not specific to people experiencing homelessness; however, certain provisions may provide additional tools for addressing some of the behaviors and activities recently reported at Hull Park.

A Regional Approach

The City Commission recently adopted a resolution supporting the Housing and Homelessness Task Force Strategic Vision and the continued development of a coordinated regional approach to housing and homelessness.

Addressing homelessness and its associated challenges extends beyond the City of Traverse City and requires sustained participation from Grand Traverse County, neighboring townships and other local governments, service providers, healthcare organizations, philanthropic partners, law enforcement, and others.

CITY PROPOSAL 1

TIF 101: INFRASTRUCTURE IN PROPOSED PLAN

On November 3, 2026, City of Traverse City voters will be asked to consider Proposal 1: Infrastructure First TIF Plan. In advance of the election, the City is providing a series of educational articles to help residents understand Tax Increment Financing, how it has been used in the City, and what is included in the proposal.

As a public body, the City has a responsibility to remain neutral in an election and to ensure that information provided is factual. Michigan law allows public bodies to produce and share factual information about matters relevant to their functions, while maintaining strict neutrality in elections. The City's role is not to persuade or dissuade voters, but to provide clear, accurate information so residents can understand the proposal and make their own informed decision.

With that responsibility in mind, a series will be provided to break down the components of City Proposal 1.

What Infrastructure Is Included in the Infrastructure First TIF Plan?

The proposed Infrastructure First TIF Plan identifies public infrastructure, improvements, and services that could be funded with TIF revenue during the proposed 20-year plan period. Inclusion in the plan does not mean that every project will be undertaken or that funding has been authorized.

Examples of infrastructure and public improvements identified in the proposed plan include:

• Boardman-Ottaway Downtown River Restoration & Infrastructure: Phased improvements along the downtown river corridor, including pedestrian bridges, boardwalks, river access, habitat and shoreline improvements, public spaces, accessibility improvements, and stormwater infrastructure.
• Front Street South Alley Improvements & Utility Relocation: Reconstruction of the alley between Park and Pine streets, including surface treatments, lighting, pedestrian improvements, landscaping, stormwater infrastructure, and burial of utility lines.
• West Bay Lakeshore Stabilization: Natural flood-control methods, resilient landscaping, and designed public access along West Grand Traverse Bay.
• State Street Mid-Block Pedestrian Crosswalks: Five new mid-block pedestrian crossings along State Street.
• East Front Street Reconstruction, Streetscaping & Gateway: Full reconstruction from Grandview Parkway to Park Street, including underground utilities, sidewalks, crosswalks, lighting, trees, signage, accessibility improvements, and a gateway feature.
• Bayfront Trail: Construction of the next segment of the expanded TART Bayfront Trail from Clinch Park to Division Street, with TIF funding identified for the portion between Clinch Park and Oak Street.
• Garland Street Green Infrastructure: Additional tree canopy, landscaping, and other green infrastructure. 

Specific projects would require the City's planning, budgeting, and approval processes. Major City infrastructure projects and expenditures would require City Commission approval.

Each year, 2% of TIF revenue would be contributed to stormwater infrastructure, and an additional 2% would be contributed to City infrastructure repairs and maintenance. The plan also includes a commitment to maintain the Farmers Market and Rotary Square. 

What Is Being Considered Now?

The current TIF 97 plan is scheduled to end in 2027. On November 3, 2026, City voters will consider whether to approve the Infrastructure First TIF Plan, which would amend and extend the existing plan for 20 years, from January 1, 2028, through December 31, 2047.

The proposed plan would also change how the applicable tax increment is distributed. Under the proposed structure, 70% would be captured for the TIF plan and 30% would be distributed to participating taxing jurisdictions, including a share to the City's General Fund and Act 345 Police and Fire Pension Fund. The current TIF 97 plan captures 100% of the applicable increment.

PROJECT UPDATES

COMPLETE, ACTIVE, AND UPCOMING

Seventh Street Mill and Fill (Maple to Division): Active

Completion anticipated October 2, 2026

Cape Seal Project: Active

Project anticipated to be completed September 25, 2026. Pavement markings are to follow.

Catch Basin Cleaning Project: Active

Project anticipated to be completed late October

Crack Sealing Project: Active

Project anticipated to be completed late October

Monroe Street Reconstruction: Active

Phase 3 of the Monroe Street Reconstruction is underway, with Monroe Street closing from Randolph Street to West Front Street. Work will include sanitary sewer, water main, storm sewer, curb and gutter, pavement, sidewalks, and related improvements, with intermittent impacts expected at the Randolph and West Front intersections. This final phase of reconstruction is anticipated to be completed and reopened to traffic on or around October 30, 2026, weather permitting.



Farmers Market Project: Active

Construction is underway on the new Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market Pavilion. Parking Lot B is closed for the duration of the project, which includes construction of a modern, accessible covered pavilion, reconstruction of the parking lot, upgraded drainage and stormwater infrastructure, enhanced landscaping, and parking improvements to better serve the market and surrounding riverfront. The project is anticipated to be completed in spring 2027.



2026 Projects Completed

S. Garfield Sidewalk Construction Project

Eleventh Street Culvert/Kids Creek Restoration Project

Pavement Marking Project

Oak Street Mill and Fill (Seventh Street and W. Thirteenth Street)

Seventh Street Mill and Fill (S. Elmwood Ave. and S. Division Street)

Elmwood Mill and Fill (W. Front Street and W. Eleventh Streets)

Washington Street Resurface (Rose Street to Prospect Street)

Cass Street Crosswalk (E. State Street and E. Front Street)

FINANCIAL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

OCTOBER 7 - 12

The City will complete scheduled maintenance of its financial management system the week of October 7, 2026. The maintenance will result in temporary changes to Treasurer’s Office and Utility Billing services.

Payment Processing Unavailable Beginning October 7

Beginning at approximately 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, the City will be unable to process all bill payments, either in person or online, while the financial system is offline.

The Treasurer’s Office will remain open Wednesday afternoon. Customers may drop off payments; however, staff will be unable to process payments or provide receipts until the updated system is available.

Online payments are expected to be available again when the updated system goes live at approximately 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 12, 2026.

Treasurer’s Office Closed October 8–9

The City Treasurer’s Office and Utility Billing Department will be closed to the public on Thursday, October 8, and Friday, October 9, 2026, to allow staff to complete training associated with the system conversion.

During the closure, customers may continue to make utility bill payments by placing them in the red drop box outside of the Governmental Center at 400 Boardman Avenue.

Please note that no late fees will be charged on utility bill payments made through October 2026.

The City appreciates the community’s patience during this temporary interruption as staff transition to the updated financial system.

HARDY PARKING STRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS

PARKING SERVICES TEMPORARY RELOCATING

Beginning Monday, September 28, Parking Services will temporarily relocate in-person operations from the Hardy Parking Structure to the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) offices at 303 E. State Street, Suite C, while flooring improvements are completed in the southeast pedestrian tower of the parking structure.

The southeast pedestrian tower provides the only public access to the Parking Services offices. During the project, Parking Services staff will have a workstation available at the DDA office to continue assisting customers in person.

Temporary In-Person Service Hours

Monday–Friday: 8 a.m.–6 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Sunday: No in-person service

Parking Services staff will remain available by phone during normal operating hours, including Sundays. Staff will provide curbside service for permit purchases or any other transactions scheduled by calling the office at (231) 922-0241.

Work in the Hardy Parking Structure is expected to be completed by Sunday, October 11, 2026 with in-person Parking Services operations returning to the Hardy Parking Structure following completion of the project.

The City appreciates the public’s patience during these temporary improvements.

Background

Parking Services is undertaking phase two of a five-year restoration program for both City parking structures, representing an investment of more than $1.6 million to maintain and preserve the structures and extend their useful life.

WATER SERVICE LINE REPLACEMENT

WEEK OF OCTOBER 5

Michigan's 2017 Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) designates galvanized water services as lead service lines if they "are or ever were" connected to a lead gooseneck, requiring utilities to pay for replacing private water services from the curb stop to the building. Lead goosenecks, installed before the mid-1940s, are 3-foot lead pipes used between the brass connection to the water main and a galvanized pipe.

The City has since installed copper services and has no known fully lead service lines. Not all private galvanized lines need replacement; those originally connected to City-owned copper services don't require replacement. The water service line replacement project started in May 2026 and is anticipated to be completed by fall 2026.

Week of October 5 Locations

The week of October 5, 2026, work will be conducted on the 400 and 800 blocks of S. Union, the 1100, 1200, 1700, and 2000 blocks of E. Eighth, the 900 block of Washington, the 400 block of S. East Bay Blvd, and the 400 block of Wenonah. This work will cause flagging, lane shifts, and sidewalk closures.

TRAVERSE CITY

LIGHT & POWER

ENERGY FAIR

Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) invites the community to explore clean energy in action at the TCLP Clean Energy Fair on Friday, October 9, 2026.

Connect with the City and other local clean-energy organizations, ask questions, explore new technologies, and learn about practical solutions for your home, business, and community.

The fair will feature:

• Electric vehicles and charging
• Renewable energy technologies
• Energy efficiency and home improvements
• Financing and available resources
• Local clean-energy programs and vendors
• Guided tours of the Hall Street solar canopy and battery storage system, led by KEEN
• A kids' scavenger hunt with a chance to win a clean energy STEM kit

Friday, October 9, 2026

Beginning at 5:00 p.m.

Traverse City Light & Power

130 Hall Street

NOW HIRING

HICKORY HILLS SEASONAL POSITIONS

The City is hiring seasonal employees for the 2026–2027 ski season at Hickory Hills Ski Area and Lodge.

A variety of seasonal positions are available for individuals interested in being part of the Hickory Hills team this winter.

Great Pay + Employee Perks

In addition to competitive seasonal wages, Hickory Hills employees are eligible for several perks, including a season completion cash incentive of $1.50–$3.50 per hour worked, depending on the position.

Seasonal employees also receive:

• Season pass
• Equipment rentals
• Shift meal

Positions Include

• Lodge Supervisor
• Kitchen Lead
• Slope Supervisors
• Snowmaker
• Rentals/Ticket Sales
• Tow Operator
• Food & Beverage

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Pay is dependent on the position and experience.

Ready to join the team? Complete an application at traversecitymi.gov/jobs and submit it to jobs@traversecitymi.gov.

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

CHARGE INTO FIRE SAFETY

The City and Traverse City Fire Department are recognizing Fire Prevention Week, October 4–10, 2026, with this year's theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.”

Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices we use every day, including phones, laptops, e-bikes, power tools, and other rechargeable products. Fire Prevention Week is an opportunity to learn how to safely buy, charge, and recycle these batteries.

Keep these safety tips in mind:

• Buy listed products. Look for a mark from a nationally recognized testing laboratory when purchasing lithium-ion battery-powered devices.
• Charge safely. Always use the charging equipment supplied with the device or recommended by the manufacturer, and follow charging instructions.
• Watch for warning signs. Stop using a battery if you notice unusual heat, swelling, odor, leaking, or a change in shape or color.
• Recycle batteries properly. Lithium-ion batteries should not be placed in household trash or regular recycling bins. Use an appropriate battery recycling location instead.

Take a few minutes during Fire Prevention Week to check the rechargeable devices and batteries in your home and make safe charging part of your everyday routine.