Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park in Michigan is set to undergo significant renovations funded by $8.5 million from the federal American Rescue Plan. The upgrades aim to improve visitor access, and camping amenities, and modernize facilities to enhance the park experience.
The funding comes as part of a $273 million allocation to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for addressing longstanding infrastructure needs in state parks and trails.
The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 provided the funding, enabling the DNR to address long-overdue rehabilitation projects. The planned renovations include a new park entrance to alleviate traffic congestion, an accessible campground contact station, a relocated headquarters building, and an at-grade pedestrian crossing to replace the existing non-accessible bridge over U.S. 31.
Additionally, the park’s sanitation station will be expanded and relocated to reduce wait times and improve vehicle flow.
The renovation project officially begins this week with the removal of trees near the park’s entrance and south of Mitchell Creek. While the majority of the campground’s tree cover will remain intact, some areas near U.S. 31 and northwest campsites will experience noticeable changes.
According to an article published by Manistee News Advocate, Stephanie Rosinski, supervisor for Traverse City and Leelanau state parks, emphasized the importance of timing for tree removal.
“To protect the park’s remaining trees and reduce the risk of oak wilt disease, tree removal must take place in the winter months, outside of the growing season,” she said. This approach prioritizes the long-term health and sustainability of the park’s natural environment.
The project necessitates phased closures of the campground to ensure public safety during construction. The modern campground will close from Jan. 13 to April 1, including pedestrian access.
Another closure will begin July 7, 2025, after the National Cherry Festival, and will extend through the 2026 camping season. The park’s day-use area along Lake Michigan will remain accessible, although intermittent closures may occur during intersection work.
In conjunction with the DNR’s plans, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will lead a reconstruction project at the Three Mile Road and U.S. 31 intersection. The upgrades will align the state park’s day-use beach entrance with the intersection, enhancing access and traffic flow. Construction is slated to begin in early 2026, with some temporary road closures anticipated during the process.
