WEST END BEACH IMPROVEMENTS

CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT APPROVED

At their March 17, 2025, meeting, the City Commission approved a contract for the West End Beach Parking Lot and Restroom Preparation Project.

West End Beach Parking Lot Improvements

Following damage to the parking lot from high water levels in 2020, the project includes reducing parking from 25 to 14 spaces, increasing ADA accessibility, planting native vegetation, and using natural stone for improvements.

West End Beach Restrooms

In 2022, the City was awarded a $200,500 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant to replace the bathroom facility at West End Beach and construct a new facility at the RB Parking Lot, adjacent to the volleyball courts. A 50% match of $200,500 was required from the City.

The new facilities will be precast concrete structures built off-site. They are fabricated with high-strength precast concrete to meet all local building codes and design requirements, comply with ADA standards, and withstand heavy snow, high winds, and Category E seismic loads. The all-concrete construction also makes the buildings easy to maintain and resistant to vandalism.

Construction at West End Beach and restroom preparation is anticipated to begin this spring. The $387,788.78 contract includes a 10% contingency and will be funded through the Capital Outlay Fund and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant. Additionally, the City is pursuing a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) grant for further coastline improvements along West End Beach, with the application due in April.

PROPOSED R2 ZONING AMENDMENTS

APPROVED FOR POSSIBLE ENACTMENT ON APRIL 7TH

At the March 17, 2025, City Commission meeting, an amendment to the R-2 Mixed Density Residential District was scheduled for possible enactment at their April 7, 2025 meeting. The proposed change would increase the allowable number of dwelling units per parcel from two to four.

This amendment was initially part of a 2023 zoning update recommended by the Planning Commission, but was not adopted. The R-2 density adjustment was not acted upon, leaving R-1b and R-2 districts with identical density regulations.

While the amendment would allow for increased density, existing zoning regulations—such as setbacks, lot size, and other requirements—would still determine property eligibility. Community members are encouraged to review the proposal and stay engaged in the discussion.

STRATEGIC ACTION PLANNING UPDATE

COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS PUBLISHED

The Community Survey results have been posted to the project portal! 

With approximately 1,200 responses, it provides a great data set and set of community insights. The survey probes topics like future direction, sentiments about change, and ideas for the Strategic Action Plan. This information is helping inform the development of the plan, together with specific action steps. Some of the key insights from the survey include:

• Residents and stakeholders love Traverse City, and enjoy living here!
• There is a significant portion of the residents who are concerned about the current direction and speed of change, especially in topics like congestion, overdevelopment and loss of character. Housing and housing affordability are big issues.
• There is a strong desire to better guide the future development and direction of the city. There is strong support for more intentional proactive urban design, and taking a larger regional approach to planning. People want to protect the community character and feel, and this is especially strong at the neighborhood level. 
• There is a very strong alignment in the data, showing that many people share the same broad concerns and ideals for the future. 

The survey data is posted to the project portal, and is presented in a series of interactive charts.

USE LEAVES FOR THE GOOD

LIVING A GREENER WAY OF LIFE

Leaving 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

Make the Switch

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 Rebate 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

Leaf & Brush Pick Up Begins April 28th

The City's Leaf & Brush Pick Up is scheduled later this season and will begin on April 28, 2025. In 2024, the City launched a new map to streamline its annual leaf pickup program, dividing 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 unpredictable weather conditions, exact dates for each zone's pickup will not be provided. The City encourages residents to be ready for leaf pick up in their zone, as there will be only one pass. Leaves may be raked on-street no sooner than April 25th.

Brush piles cannot exceed 8' x 8' and 4' high - branches no more than 4" in diameter and should be placed in the alley. If there is no alley, brush can be placed behind the curb or pavement edge of the street.

MDOT M72/M22 PROJECT

UPDATES & IMPACTS

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is set to begin the 2025 reconstruction project on March 21, 2025 to 2.2 miles of M-72 (Grandview Parkway) and M-22 (Bay Shore Drive). The $25.8 million project will improve roadway conditions, improve safety, and upgrade pedestrian and transit infrastructure between Division Street in the City and Cherry Bend Road in Elmwood Township. The project is anticipated to be completed by November 15, 2025.

What to Expect

The reconstruction will include:

• Full pavement removal and replacement to improve ride quality
• Drainage enhancements, including new curbs, gutters, storm sewers, and culverts
• New sidewalks and non-motorized paths to enhance pedestrian access
• Upgraded transit stops to support public transportation
• Improved accessibility with sidewalk ramps upgraded to meet ADA standards
• A new roundabout at M-72/M-22, incorporating Bay Street for better traffic flow
• Cherry Bend Road traffic signal upgrades and driveway access improvements

Construction Phases & Traffic Impacts

During construction, one lane of traffic will remain open in each direction on M-72 and M-22 for most of the project. However, there will be occasional short-term lane closures and detours:

Bay Street Closure:

• Bay Street from M-72 to Ramsdell Street will be closed while the new roundabout is built.

TART Trail & Sidewalk Closures:

• March to May and June to October: The west side of the TART Trail (Elmwood Ave. to the Leelanau Trail) will be closed, along with sidewalks near the intersection. A temporary pedestrian crossing (HAWK signal) will be installed for safety.
• May to June: The east side of the TART Trail (Division St. to north of the intersection) will be closed. Pedestrians and cyclists will be detoured to alternate crossings.

Access to all businesses and residences will be maintained throughout the project.

Clinch Marina Opening Early & Deep Water Launch Impacts

To support boaters during the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) 2025 Project, Clinch Park Marina will open early on April 1, 2025. Those needing a deep-water launch should plan ahead, as roadwork between Division and Cherry Bend Road may restrict large vessel transport to Elmwood Marina.

Key updates:

• Elmwood Marina will also open early to assist with deep-water launches.
• Boaters needing a deep-water launch should schedule early, as access to Elmwood Marina will be limited after May 1, 2025 due to width restrictions.
• Clinch Park Marina will have limited staffing and no amenities until May 15, 2025.
• MDOT permits required for oversized loads; plan accordingly.

Transient Boaters: Plan Ahead for Summer Visits

If you’re planning to visit Clinch Park Marina or Elmwood Marina this summer, be aware that the MDOT 2025 Project may impact access routes, particularly for large vessels needing a deep water launch.

Key considerations for transient boaters to the Traverse City Area:

• No early reservations at Clinch Marina: The Michigan DNR reservation system will not have transient slips available before the usual opening date of May 15, 2025.
• Road Restrictions: Oversized vessels (beam over 8.5 feet) will be impacted after May 1, 2025, to access Elmwood Marina.
• Alternative Routes: After May 1, 2025 wide loads may require special permits and coordination to navigate restricted roads.

The City appreciates the community’s patience during this project. Stay tuned for updates and detour information throughout the construction period.

At their March 18, 2025, meeting, the Planning Commission introduced a series of initiated zoning text amendments to further regulate vacation home rentals in the zoning districts where they are currently allowed. Restrictions are currently in place at 25% for C-1, C-2, and D-2.

The Planning Commission did not take action but proposed adjusting the percentage of dwelling units on a parcel that can be used as a vacation home rental in the following districts:

• C-3: Community Center - 100% to 35%
• C-4a: Regional Center - 100% to 50%
• C-4b: Regional Center - 100% to 50%
• C-4c: Regional Center - 100% to 25%
• D-1: Development - 100% to 25%
• D-3: Development - 100% to 25%
• I: Industrial - 100% to 0%

The amendments would require a public hearing to take any action and are anticipated to be scheduled for April 15, 2025. At the public hearing, the Planning Commission would consider approving a recommendation for City Commission approval.

SEEKING GUARDIAN AWARD NOMINATIONS

The City's Coast Guard Committee proudly announces the call for nominations for its Guardian Award. Established to recognize outstanding contributions to the community by individuals, families, or entire Coast Guard families active at Air Station Traverse City, this award celebrates the epitome of selfless service and dedication.

The Coast Guard is a unique branch of the Military responsible for an array of maritime duties, from ensuring safe and lawful commerce to performing rescue missions in severe conditions. The Coast Guard Committee serves in an advisory capacity to the City Commission to make recommendations on matters relating to the operation, development, and planning of the United States Coast Guard services, facilities, and programs within the City of Traverse City. The City of Traverse City has been a designated Coast Guard City since 2010.

Nominations are due by March 31, 2025. The honoree(s) will be celebrated at a reception in spring 2025.

THE PERFORMANCE

ADDRESSING HOUSING & HOMELESSNESS

The City has published The Performance, the 2024 annual report, highlighting the significant progress and accomplishments in the past year.

In 2024, the City made significant strides toward tackling housing challenges and supporting those experiencing homelessness. Through collaborative partnerships, strategic planning, and innovative solutions, the City worked to expand housing options, increase shelter availability, and improve supportive services.

Key accomplishments include:

Permanent Supportive Housing & Shelter Expansion

• The Homelessness Collective—a partnership of community organizations, police, and social workers—focused on sustainable solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly at The Pines.
• A year-round emergency shelter at Safe Harbor received City Commission support, with efforts underway to secure a permanent location.

Major Housing Developments

• Annika Place II: A revised PILOT arrangement was approved, extending the term from 16 to 50 years, for a 52-unit mixed-income housing development, including 19 units of permanent supportive housing for those experiencing homelessness.
• Orchardview: Approved a 4% PILOT arrangement for a 51-unit development, featuring rehabilitated townhomes and new apartment buildings with affordable units.
• East Bay Flats: Provided $360,000 in funding for permanent supportive housing for 27 chronically homeless individuals by early 2025.

Policy & Funding Advancements

• The City secured approximately $1.8 million in federal funding as a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Entitlement Community for five years.
• The City is exploring the transformation of underutilized properties, including Lot O and the Beitner Road property, for future affordable housing opportunities

Safety, Sanitation & Community Support

• Expanded police outreach and added a secondary law embedded social worker position.
• Installed portable restrooms, solar-powered charging stations, and enhanced sanitation services in key areas.
• Dedicated $120,000 in ARPA funds to sustain day shelter services for the next two years.

By prioritizing collaboration and sustainable housing solutions, the City remains committed to making meaningful progress in addressing homelessness and expanding housing opportunities. Looking ahead, efforts will continue to create a more inclusive and supportive community for all.

SAVE THE DATE

SENIOR CENTER & PARK GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION

Mark your calendar for April 30, 2025, and join the City and Grand Traverse County for the exciting Grand Opening Celebration of the Senior Center and Senior Center Park! Stay tuned for more details on this special event.

THANK YOU

SKI SEASON CLOSES AT HICKORY

Thank you for all the memories this season at Hickory Hills!