Traverse City News and Events

What Is "City Lot?"

July 28, 2015

The vacant, city-owned parcel at 500 West Front Street – a strip of land with a single park bench next to the fire station – could turn into a vibrant gathering space thanks to a new effort launched by business owners, neighborhood associations and local units of government.

Nate Elkins, of Influence Design Forum in Traverse City, is working with the Michigan Municipal League on a grant-funded place-making initiative for the underutilized open space. Traverse City is one of 7 communities in Michigan that received a PlacePlans grant in 2015 designed to help communities plan "transformative placemaking projects"

According to the Michigan Municipal League: "In the west end of downtown Traverse City, several projects are underway to address issues such as pedestrian and motorized infrastructure, streetscapes, and poor connectivity. However, the area lacks a true destination or gathering space. A new design plan for a vacant city-owned parcel along Kids Creek would transform the site into a true community space for residents and visitors, providing both a focal point for this emerging district and a connection to the heart of downtown.”

Elkins and the City Lot steering committee will be building awareness, support and seeking input through onsite demonstration, a website and social media. A community chalkboard has been erected on the parcel for passersby to write ideas and brainstorm uses. Learn more here.

Comment

Eye-Popping Numbers From The Warmest Winter In Traverse City History

Read More >>

Join The Ticker for April Recess at Commongrounds!

Read More >>

GT Regional Land Conservancy Acquires $5.1M Property in East Bay Township

Read More >>

173-Home Rental Subdivision, Timber Ridge Expansion Proposed

Read More >>

Leadership Changes, Housing Project, Commons Trail on Garfield Agenda

Read More >>

What's Next for Nonprofits at Planned Innovation Center Site?

Read More >>

Land Bank Plans New Uses for Crestwood, Kingsley, Boardman Properties

Read More >>

Meet Traverse City's Behind-The-Scenes Patrons Of Youth Music

Read More >>

Local Wineries Score In Largest U.S. Wine Competition

Read More >>

Judge Dismisses Studio 8 Lawsuit Against City, Three Individuals

Read More >>

NMC Audio Tech Program Plots Fundraiser Concert

Read More >>

How Two TC Filmmakers Captured The Story Of Michigan’s Arthouse Movie Theater Heritage

Read More >>

Avelo Airlines Coming to TVC with Direct Service to New Haven

Read More >>

$30-$40 Million Technology/Logistics Park Proposed Next to Airport

Read More >>