Grand Traverse County commissioners are set to vote today on a letter urging the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to prioritize rebuilding the pedestrian bridge at Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park. The bridge, which safely linked the park’s campground to its Lake Michigan beach across US-31, was removed in late September 2024 after being struck by an excavator on a flatbed truck that damaged the structure and sent debris onto a passing car. The overpass, built in 1966 following the death of a 4-year-old child who was hit crossing the highway, had long served as a vital connection for families and visitors.

Its absence has reignited safety concerns about pedestrians attempting to cross the high-traffic route on foot. The letter, written by District 8 Commissioner Scott Sieffert and addressed to DNR Director Scott Bowen, thanks the department and local lawmakers—including State Representatives Betsy Coffia and John Roth, and Senator Jon DaMoose—for their ongoing collaboration toward an ADA-compliant replacement.

It stresses the need for urgency, noting Grand Traverse’s rapid population growth and the park’s popularity with both residents and tourists. “As one of the fastest-growing communities in Michigan, we recognize how vital this project is to ensuring the safety and accessibility of residents and visitors alike,” the letter reads. The bridge removal was part of a broader $8.5 million redevelopment plan for Traverse City State Park.

However, with no confirmed location or timeline for reconstruction, local frustration has grown.

Representative Coffia recently called for funding transparency and clear timelines following community rallies in support of the bridge. Preliminary cost estimates for a new overpass range from $6 to $8 million, depending on design and materials. County officials hope that today’s vote will send a clear message to state leaders about the importance of restoring safe pedestrian access across US-31. “This bridge was more than infrastructure—it was part of Traverse City’s identity,” said one resident during last week’s meeting. “Families have used it for generations.

Losing it left a real gap in safety and community life.” If approved, the commissioners’ letter could accelerate state action and reinforce the community’s collective call to make the crossing safe again.