Yesterday (02/25), representatives from the City of Traverse City, Senator Allen and Representative Schmidt met with the MDOT director in Lansing. Reports from the meeting suggest that options for bicycle and pedestrian improvements on 8^th Street between Barlow and Garfield are still possible additions to the current 8^th Streetimprovement plan. MDOT is willing to work with the city to facilitate conversations with the local Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) office regarding the Federal Stimulus money and the contract.

Thanks to everyone who has already made phone calls and sent letters regarding this issue so far. Now that the issue lies with FHWA, please kindly ask US Senator Carl Levin, US Senator Debbie Stabenaw or US Representative Dave Camp to support adding “complete streets” concepts to the pending 8^th Street project without losing the Federal dollars. Thanks for your help in making Traverse City a more bicycle friendly community.