City of Traverse City Updating Community Master Plan
Community invited to sign up for project updates and engagement
The City of Traverse City is launching an update to the community Master Plan, a policy document used by elected and appointed community leaders to guide land-use decisions, including those related to transportation, development, housing, recreation, economy, natural resources, and arts and culture.
This project will rely heavily on community engagement, and the City invites folks who live, work, learn, and play in Traverse City to sign up for project updates and engagements at the project website at: www.tcmasterplan.org.
The Master Plan update is led by a leadership team comprised of Traverse City residents, property owners, business owners, community leaders, and City officials, and is supported by a consultant team led by Beckett & Raeder. The team has already begun tabling pop-up events around town, including at local restaurants, parks, and events, to build awareness of the project and opportunities for the community to engage. The team will host the first online survey in September and community open house in October.
“We are being very intentional about getting out into the community, as opposed to asking the community to come to us,” says David Hassing, Chair of the City Planning Commission. “It is important that we reach folks where they are, to invite as many voices as possible into this community plan for Traverse City.”
The Master Plan update is expected to take about 18 months to complete with an anticipated fall of 2023 completion date. Individuals who sign up for project updates will receive invitations to participate in every public engagement activity and the project team will also utilize traditional and social media, mailings, and pop-up events to reach as many Traverse City stakeholders as possible.
“Traverse City exists in a changing world, particularly in recent years. We need this plan to thoughtfully identify opportunities for improvement, preservation, and transformation in response to our changing economy, climate, and society,” says Shawn Winter, City Planning Director. “Let’s work together to create a future for Traverse City that is inclusive and supportive of all who make our community the special place it is.”