Trail Project Campaigns

The Leelanau Trail Campaign
The Leelanau Trail Campaign began in 2006 with the goal of raising $1.38 million to complete paving on the trail, add amenities, replace a bridge, pay down the mortgage and establish a maintenance fund.

Great progress is being made. In 2007, we paid off the mortgage on the trail. We raised matching funds to secure a MDOT Enhancement grant to pay for and construct the new bridge over County Road 633, which was completed in July 2007. We also raised funds to build amenities at DeYoung Natural Area and near Suttons Bay, including drilling a well and installing a drinking fountain at DeYoung.

Today we are highly focused on raising the remaining funds necessary to finish paving. With paving and amenities we anticipate increases in both the number and type of users on the Leelanau Trail. A more efficient paved trail is usable by more people, from the disabled and the elderly, to young parents with children. It provides family-friendly and affordable recreational activities encouraging better fitness and health. It also enhances "smart commuting" resulting in less congested car traffic. An improved trail encourages visitors to see the beauty of our region and all users to engage in a healthier lifestyle for a healthier community. The 15 miles of trail stretching between Traverse City and Suttons Bay currently features eight miles of asphalt paving. We are planning to pave the remaining seven miles between Lakeview Hills Road and Revold Road.

Click here to donate to the Leelanau Trail Campaign.

TART-Boardman Lake Trail Connector
When the Boardman Lake Trail East was completed in 2005, it became important to connect it with the nearby TART Trail. To help make that connection happen TART Trails is partnering with the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, Grand Traverse Children’s Garden, and Traverse Area Community Sailing, each participating in the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s Access to Recreation Initiative.

The Foundation has granted $20,000 for the connector that TART Trails must match with local funds. This project will provide a safe, accessible gateway to the Access to Recreation project and provide a universally accessible recreation center at Hull Park. You can make a difference by supporting this important link in the TART system.

Click here to donate to the TART-Boardman Lake Trail Connector Campaign.

Three Mile Trail extension to Hammond Road
The Three Mile Trail is being constructed in two phases. In collaboration with the Grand Traverse County Road Commission and Michigan Department of Transportation, Phase I was completed in 2006. It connects the TART Trail at Three Mile Rd. in East Bay Township with the State Park Beach on East Grand Traverse Bay and South Airport Rd. Phase II will connect the trail with schools and neighborhoods at Hammond Rd. further south.

TART donors have generously provided the Phase I matching local funds to secure a Federal Transportation Enhancement Funds. Stay tuned as Phase II unfolds--it will be a fantastic addition to the TART system.

Click here to donate to the Three Mile Trail Extension Campaign.

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