HICKORY HILLS FEASIBILITY STUDY

TRAIL NETWORK SURVEY

Improvements to the Hickory Hills Recreation Area will build upon a four-seasons park for all to enjoy! In 2022, Phase 2 of the Hickory Hills Master Plan kicked off. Initial work will add snowmaking to the Nordic Trails in the woods area near the entrance, add snowmaking hydrants on Swede to improve snowmaking efficiency, and add a third booster pump to the snowmaking system. In addition, Phase 2 of the plan will include a feasibility study for designated trails, including mountain biking. 

Designated trail networks can decrease recreational conflicts. Mountain bike trails are designated for non-motorized bicycles equipped for off-road use. Trail use is still open to hikers, however, they are not the intended primary user group for whom the trail is designed to accommodate due to design to meet the requirements of mountain bikes and their riders, protect resources, and achieve a durable and maintainable trail.

A Hickory Hills Trail Network public survey has launched seeking input on a conceptual trail map. The survey will be available through August 2022.

Over $5 million has been invested at Hickory since 2017 to support park improvements including the new lodge and related infrastructure; new Nordic, alpine, and hiking trails; expanded disc golf; conveyor lift, and a sledding hill.

The City Commission's 2022 adopted their Goals and Objectives identified connecting people with nature as a strategic priority with a goal to provide safe and accessible public spaces where people may recreate, socialize, or enjoy being alone in nature.

SAFE HARBOR EXTENDED HOURS

The Traverse City Police Department and representatives from Goodwill Industries will present to the City Commission at their August 8th Study Session regarding proposed day center operations at Safe Harbor. 

A review will be provided on the new North Boardman Police Officer and Police Social Worker positions and how they will work closely with the community partners and the Goodwill Community Outreach workers to facilitate positive outcomes in the neighborhood.

Day Center Operations at Safe Harbor are being proposed on Saturday and Sunday from 8 am to 6 pm.

TRAVERSE CITY

VOTES

Voter turnout in the City of Traverse City for the August 2, 2022 Primary Election was at 39%.

A big thank you to City election workers that step up to power democracy on election day!

The next election will take place on November 8, 2022. The City Clerk's Office mailed Absentee Ballot Applications for both the August and November elections in June of 2022. 

Due to the passage of the statewide ballot proposal in 2018, all eligible and registered voters in Michigan may now request an absentee ballot without providing a reason.



ELECTRIFY

TRAVERSE CITY

Traverse City Light & Power and students from the University of Michigan will present "Electrify Traverse City: Reducing Carbon in Traverse City" at the City Commission Study Session on August 8th.

TCLP and UofM recently conducted research to explore the reduction of the City's green house gas (GHG) emissions and carbon footprint.

Nationally 13% of all U.S. GHG emissions come from commercial and residential uses, primarily from natural gas. 

Learn more about the research conducted to reduce the City's carbon footprint.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The City is dedicated to pursuing housing opportunities for all, regardless of income. Housing needs have been addressed by planning and zoning initiatives that promote greater density, encouraging rental housing and smaller units, by partnering on affordable housing projects with PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) programs, and identifying City owned properties where affordable housing may be developed.

City Officials recently took a hard hat tour of Ruth Park, a housing development along Wellington Street in which the City participated in a PILOT. This affordable housing project will provide 58 one, two, and three bedroom units for singles, families, and seniors who earn 30%-80% of the area median income. Live/work spaces will also be incorporated with additional amenities such as a rooftop terrace. Building materials from the demolition of the existing buildings were recycled and used by a local farmer. Ruth Park is set for completion at the end of this year. 

The City Commission's 2022 adopted their Goals and Objectives identified housing and homelessness as a strategic priority with a goal increase opportunities for more diverse housing through public and private options.

IN THE COMMUNITY

August 4th is celebrated as the U.S. Coast Guard's birthday. Seen here is Traverse City Mayor Richard Lewis, reading a City proclamation dedicating August as Coast Guard Month.