Michigan Grants More Than 11 Million to Area Conservation Projects

State grants totaling 11,394,400 dollars were announced December 12 for a slate of park and conservation projects that directly affect Grand Traverse County and neighboring townships. The largest award, a 5,347,600 dollar Land and Water Conservation Fund grant, was designated for the Elberta Waterfront Community Conservation Project, a 35 acre effort intended to create public parkland, a nature sanctuary and a small community focused mixed use area. A 4,813,600 dollar Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant will secure a conservation easement for The Ridge in East Bay Township.

Smaller awards directed funds to active transportation and trail infrastructure. TART Trails received 400,000 dollars for the Three Mile Trail expansion to improve a north south multi use corridor that links neighborhoods, schools and parks. Another 400,000 dollars was allocated for VASA Trailhead improvements, including upgraded parking, stormwater work, ADA access and warming hut improvements. Grand Traverse County will receive 300,000 dollars for trail design and construction at Holiday Woodlands Natural Area, and 133,200 dollars will fund boardwalks, signage and reroutes at Cedar Run Creek Natural Area.

Local organizations will lead or partner on implementation. The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, East Bay Township, TART Trails and Grand Traverse County are identified as primary leads for components of the work, and several projects will require matching funds and coordination with local partners. Officials have outlined next steps that include ecological surveys, fundraising and design work before state contracts and fund disbursement are finalized.

The grants fit into broader county planning for conservation, recreational access and stormwater resilience. By protecting strategic parcels and expanding trails, the projects are expected to enhance outdoor recreation, support nonmotorized travel between schools and neighborhoods, and contribute to local economic activity from visitors and residents. Implementation timelines will vary by project, but officials anticipate planning and surveys in 2026 with phased construction and easement closings to follow as matching funds and agreements are secured. Community involvement in fundraising and volunteer stewardship will be essential to move several projects from design into construction.