The City of Traverse City Reviews Annual Achievements
Projects and initiatives outlined in report
The City of Traverse City has released its 2022 annual report, The Performance, which provides insight into major accomplishments and significant projects completed during the past year. Throughout the report many achievements for the City are highlighted, among many other topics.
"The City continues to address numerous initiatives that relate to aging infrastructure, our water and sewer systems, environmental sustainability, housing, and equitable access to multi-modal transportation networks. 2022 was a big year, with the completion of the Boardman Lake Loop Trail, a commitment to over $48 million in water and sewer improvements over the next five years, and a large focus on providing affordable housing in our region,” says City Manager Martin Colburn. “We trust that our community is proud of these accomplishments and the quality of life that our municipal services offer each day. I want to thank our leadership, the City Commission, those that represent all of our boards and commissions, and staff for their dedication to our home,” continued Colburn.
The City Commission’s adopted Goals & Objectives are outlined in the report and provide an overview of projects and initiatives related to water systems, climate action, access & mobility, connecting people with each other and nature, and housing & homelessness.
The report provides detail on the $10.5 Million in infrastructure projects managed by the City in 2022. Highlights include the total reconstruction of the West Front Street Bridge, and 14 miles of pavement preservation and resurfacing. Over $3,000,000 was invested into water and sewer upgrades and two five year project plans were adopted for future upgrades.
The City’s Green Team, composed of both department and community liaisons, is working to create a plan to become “carbon neutral before mid-century.” Increasing the urban tree canopy, launching a Climate Action Plan, and expanding solar opportunities are providing frameworks toward decreasing the City’s carbon impact.
After 30 years of planning and collaboration between local, state, and federal networks of government and nonprofits, the Boardman Lake Loop Trail was completed. The 4+ mile non-motorized trail network circumnavigates around the 339 acre Boardman Lake watershed and offers numerous amenities such as public art, a fitness court, recreation, commerce, and connection.
Connecting people with each other and nature to provide safe and accessible public spaces where people may recreate, socialize, or enjoy being alone in nature resulted in park improvements along the waterfront, Indian Woods Park, and Hickory Hills Recreation Area.
Exploring housing opportunities through the use of surface parking lots and underutilized City properties was researched extensively. Partnerships to provide more affordable housing were approved through formal PILOT arrangements, and the City worked with Safe Harbor to extend day operations.