The City of Traverse City officially closed on the acquisition of 528 acres of land adjacent to the Brown Bridge Quiet Area Wednesday.

According to a city release, the acquisition was made possible through a partnership with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy and funding support from a $2,352,200 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant. "Following the opportunity to acquire the property for $3,098,445, more than 80 percent of city voters approved use of Brown Bridge Trust Fund principal in an amount not to exceed $746,245 to provide the required local match," the release states.

With the acquisition, the Brown Bridge Quiet Area has expanded from approximately 1,500 acres to more than 1,800 acres of protected public land. "The property expansion creates new opportunities for environmental stewardship, outdoor recreation, and long-term public access to natural areas," the release states. Hunting access will be permitted on portions of the property under MNRTF requirements, with more details to come.

While the property is now publicly owned, city officials emphasized that additional work must occur before the site can safely support regular public access. The city, in partnership with the Grand Traverse Conservation District and Brown Bridge Advisory Committee, is working on trail planning and conceptual trail development for the property.

This summer, the public can expect a "soft opening of the expanded trail system within approximately 90 days, as required by the MNRTF grant program," the release states. "During this initial phase, access to the new property will be available through existing trailheads along Ranch Rudolf Road and via trail connections from Grand Traverse County's Camp Greilick property."

There is currently no dedicated public access point to the newly acquired parcel. Visitors are discouraged from parking along nearby roadways due to narrow shoulders, guardrails, and limited sight distance. Additional site improvements, including boundary surveys, fencing near the adjacent shooting range, and other safety measures, must be completed as part of the transition process.

Next year, the city plans to construct a new trailhead along Hobbs Highway beginning in spring 2027. Planned amenities include a parking area, restroom facilities, a universally accessible trail, and a viewing platform overlooking Spring Lake. These improvements will be funded through the city's Brown Bridge Park Improvements Fund.