Traverse City, MI – Sept. 15, 2025 — The $8.5 million renovation of the Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park is entering a new and highly visible phase this week, with major roadwork and bridge removal beginning along U.S. 31. The project, led by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is aimed at improving access, traffic flow, and long-term usability of one of the region’s most visited parks.
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According to the DNR, “contractors will begin preparation work to widen U.S. 31 by 20 feet and build a new right-turn lane into the park campground” starting Monday, Sept. 15. To keep vehicles moving during construction, traffic will shift slightly north, eliminating the middle turn lane but maintaining two lanes in both eastbound and westbound directions.
Just days later, on Saturday, Sept. 20, work will begin on the removal of the pedestrian bridge that currently spans U.S. 31. That weekend, vehicles will be detoured to Three Mile Road and Four Mile Road. Once the bridge is dismantled, crews will begin removing the attached staircases in stages, requiring additional traffic shifts throughout the process.
While the bridge removal is a significant change for park visitors and nearby residents, the DNR emphasized its long-term commitment to ensuring safe pedestrian access across the highway. The agency stated it is “committed to working with the community to find a new location for a pedestrian bridge,” though funding, location, and a timeline for construction have not yet been determined.
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The Traverse City State Park, located just east of downtown, serves thousands of campers, cyclists, and pedestrians each season. The road widening and new turn lane are designed to ease congestion along U.S. 31, particularly during peak summer tourism months. Eliminating traffic bottlenecks at the park’s entrance will also improve safety for both local commuters and visiting families.
The removal of the pedestrian bridge, while temporary, is expected to spark broader community discussions about pedestrian safety and connectivity along one of the city’s busiest stretches of road. Local officials have noted that securing new funding could take time, but public feedback will play a central role in deciding the best location for a future crossing.
The renovation project, funded in part through state recreation dollars, will continue in phases through 2026. Future work will include upgraded campground facilities, improved ADA access, and enhanced visitor amenities.
Residents and visitors can follow progress updates and traffic alerts at Michigan.gov/TraverseCity.
Originally reported by Northern Express.
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