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February 9, 2006Survey in hand, designers get to workCommunity input helps shape projectTRAVERSE CITY - Kevin Farron was one of the locals that University of Michigan researchers quizzed about Traverse City's downtown and its connection to the waterfront.Later, the Michigan sophomore became one of the researchers. Farron said his familiarity with the city helped him understand the survey responses of the hundreds of residents, property owners, merchants, tourists, community leaders and others. Michigan design students will use information to draw up plans for the city. "It's up to the design team now, but they also have a better idea," Farron said. Traverse City is working with Michigan and Michigan State University to develop downtown and waterfront plans. About 60 people showed up to learn the results of Michigan's survey at a meeting Wednesday. New businesses such as grocery stores, entertainment venues, a movie theater, music store and restaurants were among the wishes for downtown. More public bathrooms were high on the list of several of the groups who responded. Neighborhood residents wanted more designated swimming areas. But one of the most talked about subjects was how to get from the business district to the waterfront. "Grandview Parkway is an asset and it's a liability," said the university's Lawrence Molnar. About 60 percent of neighborhood residents surveyed said an additional underpass on Grandview Parkway was "very to extremely important." More than half of those respondents said more crosswalks were also key. Molnar said respondents told "horror stories" about attempts to cross the busy highway. The Michigan Department of Transportation will work with the city to improve pedestrian access, Molnar said. Tom and Diane Emling attended the presentation and praised the planning effort. They are also impressed with bayfront designs drawn by MSU students. "The survey results fill in the gaps," Tom Emling said. The Michigan study made suggested recommendations, including: - Grandview Parkway: Improve pedestrian access with more marked crossing points and longer crossing times. Consider pedestrian over-and-under passes. - Boardman River: Construct a boardwalk along the river from the mouth to the dam. Paint murals on buildings along the river and upgrade the rear of buildings. - Waterfront: Add restrooms, and preserve and expand "green space." Structures should not block views. Use the area for recreation, entertainment and leisure. - Development: Reserve the space between the river and the waterfront for public use and ownership. Buildings here should not block views.
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