TRAVERSE CITY -- TART Trail organizers are urging Traverse City leaders to back their idea for placing a tunnel under South Airport Road.
Executive Director Julie Clark said a tunnel would provide safe, smooth passage for pedestrians wishing to cross South Airport Road via the TART Trail. “The tunnel provides the most access to the most types of user; skiers, hikers, bikers and even canoeists can use it.”
The tunnel would be placed along the Boardman River Trial. The idea stems from a feasibility study that was recently completed. According to Clark, a similar study was conduction back in 1994.
Monday night, Clark told commissioners that the tunnel would make for a safer, better trail system. Something she said could increase property values throughout the city.
“We know that trails provide an increase in property values. They can serve as a catalyst for development. We know if you are located along a nice trail system property values can increase 5% to 20%,” Clark said.
Funding for the tunnel still seems a bit uncertain. Clark said she is hoping city leaders can help in the process of channeling grant money to the project.
