Connecting the Three Mile Trail to the cluster of school campuses south of Hammond Road has been a long standing and unfinished effort. Thanks to the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy’s recent establishment of the Mitchell Creek Meadows Nature Preserve, there is an unparalleled opportunity to expand the TART trail network and create a gateway for recreation, resource stewardship, transportation, and education in the Three Mile and Hammond corridors in East Bay Township.
Status
Design and Engineering Phase
When the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy purchased additional property adjacent to the Mitchell Creek Meadows Nature Preserve this spring, we had the opportunity to re-route the trail and provide a more direct connection to the Hammond corridor. The consultants completed additional survey and design work this summer, and we presented the updated plans at an Open House on August 22 at GTRLC’s new headquarters. Around 100 people showed up to learn about plans for the new Three Mile Trail and Safe Routes to School connections. The engagement was very positive. We are actively working with landowners to finalize design and secure easements. The goal is to have engineering completed in fall 2023.
This is a community-driven and supported trail, and a partnership between East Bay Charter Township and TART Trails, as well as others. Expanding on the existing Three Mile Trail and its connection to the regional TART Trail system has been a long-standing goal that will greatly increase non-motorized access in the Three Mile and Hammond Corridors, and help support the health, well-being, and economic vibrancy of the Township. The design of this important community connection will continue to be informed by the values of the community. Read more about OHM and other regional trail projects here.
Media coverage may be found here:
https://www.traverseticker.com/news/three-mile-trail-route-unveiled/
https://www.traverseticker.com/news/tart-trails-projects-spring-ahead/
To view summary reports from these events, please click on the links below.
Public Survey Report – Fall 2020
Community Open House Report – Fall 2020
Stakeholder Meeting Summary – Winter 2021
Three Mile Trail and Non-Motorized Connectivity Plan 2021
Three Mile Trail Extension – Planning Summary Report 2021
