Appendix F -

Local Jurisdiction Goals

& Objectives

F-1
Arcadia Township
Goal 1: Develop multi-use trails that link local community assets and connect Arcadia to a county-wide trail system. Goal 3: Develop new park and recreational facilities that are tailored toward both organized and individual recreational opportunities,
•Collaborate with SMARTrails, the Manistee County Planning Department, the Manistee County Recreation Commission and neighboring jurisdictions on multi-use trail that are accessible by all users and meet the needs of a wide variety of resident recreation interests.
development efforts.
•Facilitate meetings with members of the public, community groups (e.g. Lions Club, GTRLC, PVCC, Arcadia Garden Club, Camp Arcadia, Amway Co., etc.) to understand
•Develop a snowmobile trail that connects Arcadia to the county-wide system. their recreation goals as they relate to this plan and the Township Master Plan in order to identify priorities that can be worked on collaboratively.
•Provide user amenities at the trailheads that include trash receptacles, signage, pavilions, ADA compliant bathrooms, potable water, seating, lighting, fitness stations and •Place adult porch swings and other seating throughout the township, especially near areas of higher pedestrian activity.
bike repair stations. Current trailheads are at the Pleasant Valley Community Center (PVCC), Finch Park, Arcadia Beach & Natural Area and Grebe Park.
•Develop the following new facilities at the PVCC or on Township-owned property: ice skating rink, outdoor pickleball court, fish cleaning station, sports fields/courts, disc
•Develop a clearly marked and communicated snowshoe and cross-country ski route; the route may coincide with the non-motorized trail system but may also utilize golf and community garden.
Township-owned property on Erdman Road and 13 Mile Road, as well as Onekama School District property on Norconk Road.
•Develop a trailhead and information hub at the PVCC for the trail system, Arcadia Marsh, Arcadia Beach & Natural Area and any other natural area that promotes
•Prioritize trail route development that would connect existing neighborhoods, parks, community and economic centers and Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy environmental education.
lands within the township. These routes may consist of on-road connections, separated paths, easements across private property and linkages to existing trails.
•Develop the Arcadia Campground property on Arcadia Lake in keeping with this Recreation Plan and the Master Plan.
•Add turnouts on M-22 to make launching, fishing and wildlife viewing safer.
Goal 2: Improve existing park and recreational facilities within Arcadia so that they meet all safety standards, are designed to be used
by all types of users, are well maintained and relevant.
•Continue to Implement the park improvement plans that were established for Sunset Station, Arcadia Beach & Natural Area and Veterans Memorial Park & Marina. Goal 4: Develop and implement Township policies, initiatives and partnerships that support recreation.
•Continue to identify the potential purchase of properties that are adjacent to Lake Michigan and Arcadia Lake, would link existing recreation sites or would otherwise
•Develop site specific park plan for Pickert Park that includes, but is not limited to, improving landscaping, adding a pavilion, replacing the play structure, replacing the
support environmental stewardship in Arcadia while providing recreation opportunities to residents and visitors.
swing set to also include an ADA compliant child seat and reusing existing features in a new creative way.
•Work with Amway to acquire the Camp Arcadia property.
•Develop a site specific park plan for Finch Park that includes, but is not limited to, improving landscaping, replacing and/or improving restrooms, improving seating,
creating a pickleball court on the tennis court, making the site ADA accessible, improving lighting and developing a venue for community concerts. •Formalize a collaborative partnership with the PVCC to recognize their role as a catalyst for the development of recreation initiatives and programming. The PVCC is also
a suitable location for recreation scheduling and a point of communication for residents regarding recreational opportunities.
•Ensure recreation sites have appropriate lighting and are universally accessible.
•Work with the PVCC to assess the possibility of funding a part-time staff member for programing throughout the township and at the PVCC.
•Develop picnic table shelters at recreation sites, especially along the beachfront.
•Enhance the safety and aesthetic quality of pedestrian paths in the community through streetscape improvements such as the addition of crosswalks, vegetation and
•Expand water resources to parks (potable and non-potable as appropriate).
landscaping, ADA compliance, signage and sidewalk repairs.
•Replace signage at Arcadia’s recreation sites so that it includes site information and is displayed with a unified theme and color palette.
• Coordinate with MDOT on potential traffic calming measures along the M-22 corridor.
•Work with the Army Corps of Engineers and EGLE to secure dredging spoils from the Arcadia Lake Channel dredging to supplement beach sand at Arcadia Beach &
•Seek out regional collaborative partners to identify opportunities for developing recreational opportunities that cross municipal boundaries such as trail systems (land and
Natural Area.
water), harbor dredging and program development.
•Provide WiFi connectivity at recreation sites.
•Coordinate with the State Waterways Commission for marina management.
•Add showers and a generator at the PVCC.
•Extend North Pier to reduce dredging needs.

F-2 F-3
Goal 5: Create and improve recreational programming and opportunities.
•Improve the parks so that youth of all ages have more recreational opportunities.
•Increase the Manistee Recreation Area’s presence by conducting a meeting with families in the community to educate them about the MRA and find out what their needs
are in order to strengthen the MRA programming.
•Evaluate, collaborate and improve recreational programming at the PVCC. This effort may require the hiring of part-time staff to supplement the all volunteer organization
(see Goal 4).
•Create a subcommittee made up of residents to develop a concert series that would be primarily hosted at Finch Park.
•Create a subcommittee to develop an organized, well communicated driving tour route of the Township titled “Explore Arcadia” that leads view seekers to clearly
identified locations to view the scenic rural character, Arcadia marsh, Lake Michigan, the night (dark) sky while also providing opportunities to connect to non-motorized
trail systems. A similar self-walking trail may be developed for pedestrian traffic.
•Update the Township website and other social media so that it provides a single source of information regarding recreation related community events, recreational assets,
recreational opportunities and activity schedules. Work with the PVCC to ensure this information is posted regularly. (visitarcadiami.com)
•Add useful links to the Township webpage, including but not limited to, the Manistee Recreation Authority and the Council on Aging.
•Provide adult education and fitness classes at the PVCC.

F-4 F-5
Bear Lake Township
Goal 1: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a County wide trail system. Goal 6: Develop an eco-tourism economy.
•Develop a trail connection that would use Potter Road to connect US-31 to M-22. •Meet with the County Visitors Bureau to improve marketing of the township to increase tourism.
•Create a way-finding signage system that would show water access points, parks and other recreational, cultural and historical sites on maps within the township
(including the cemetery). Goal 7: Maintain good stewardship of the natural resources within the township while also developing recreational opportunities.
•Set up a boat power washing cleaning station at a public access site to Bear Lake and Chief Lake in order to combat Aquatic Invasive Species.
Goal 2: Develop facilities and purchase land that will be used for increasing recreational opportunities while also serving other
municipal purposes and goals.
•Build a new Township Hall that would allow for the development of recreation facilities and activities such as ball fields, shelters, a picnic area, bird watching, an
informational kiosk, a playground and others as supported by the community.
•Identify sites on Bear Lake and Chief Lake to purchase.

Goal 3: Plan for recreational development of vistas and dark sky initiatives.
•Identify sites that preserve scenic vistas as well as cultural and historic sites.
•Prepare a viewshed map of the community.
•Special consideration for preservation efforts should be given to Windy Ridge, Potter Road, Spruce Ridge, 9 Mile, 11 Mile, Maidens Road, and Chief Road. Create the
regulatory mechanisms (zoning) to preserve these vistas.
•Identify sites that may be used for the development of a Dark Sky Park.

Goal 4: Improve recreational opportunities for youth.

•Conduct a survey of local youth to identify recreational interests and gaps in recreation programming and facilities.
•Maintain existing park spaces and equipment which are utilized by youth. Support ongoing maintenance of the Bear Lake School Athletic Fields.

Goal 5: Improve access to Bear Lake and Little Beaver Creek.

•Identify access points on the Little Beaver Creek that may also be universally accessible. Consider sites on Chief Road and 8 Mile Road east of Chief Road.
•Partner with Explore the Shores Program to develop the access sites to be compliant for all types of users.

F-6 F-7
Village of Bear Lake
Goal 1: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a County wide trail system.
•Collaborate with SMARTrails, the Manistee County Planning Department, the Manistee County Recreation Commission and neighboring jurisdictions on multi-use trail
development efforts.
•Delegate a representative from Bear Lake to participate on the SMARTrails committee.
•Link recreation sites in the Village through non-motorized trails.

Goal 2: Increase the use of Hopkins Park through site improvements.

•Develop parking areas for boaters.
•Add a new bath house and showers.
•Provide potable water to campsites.
•Improve or replace existing beach pavilion.
•Add a mobi mat or other accessible pathway on the beach.
•Improve the playground equipment.

Goal 3: Improve the quality and quantity of recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
•Develop or enhance spaces that appeal to a younger demographic.
•Evaluate and improve gaps in programming for adults.
•Develop athletic fields in the community.
•Plan for and create a new community center, playground, sidewalk connections to points of interest and a splash pad.
•Add canoe and kayak launches on Bear Lake.
•Improve ADA accessibility at Village recreation sites.
•Assist in implementing the US-31 Corridor Plan (2017).

Goal 4: Develop an eco-tourism economy.

•Meet with the Visitors Bureau to educate them about the Village recreational opportunities in order to improve marketing to increase tourism.
•Attract and retain a recreation-oriented business or businesses on Bear Lake.

F-8 F-9
Brown Township
Goal 1: Improve access to the Manistee River, Chief Lake and other inland lakes.
•Coordinate with Bear Lake Township to establish an Explore the Shores site on Chief Lake.
•Improve recreational offerings at the Chief Lake public access site by improving landscaping, install a seasonal dock, create a beach area, install benches, picnic tables,
grills, improve existing parking to a larger area and ensure that the facility meets Universal Design Standards.
•Support the USFS restructuring of Bear Creek Boat Launch on the Manistee River.

Goal 2: Create a community recreational gathering place.

•Improve the Township Hall in order to make it the place to gather for recreational purposes. Improvements may include, but are not limited to, ensuring ADA access,
building a picnic shelter, adding playground equipment, resurfacing the parking lot and building a retaining wall on the north side near Coates Highway.

Goal 3: Continue to assess opportunities to add recreation assets and opportunities in the community.
•Acquire land adjacent to the Township Hall on the west side (≈ 3 Acres) that abuts Chief Creek.
•Identify land abutting the Manistee River that could be acquired for recreational use.
•Support and encourage agritourism provisions in the zoning ordinance.
•Collaborate with Manistee County and adjacent jurisdictions on recreation programming and site development.

Goal 4: Support the development of multi-use trails that are connected to a County-wide trail system and that connect local amenities.
•Collaborate with SMARTrails, the Manistee County Planning Department, the Manistee County Recreation Commission and neighboring jurisdictions on multi-use trail
development efforts.
•Link recreation sites in the township through non-motorized trails.
•In order to make connections in the trail system running through Manistee County and through Brown Township, build a bridge in the vicinity of Bear Creek and develop
a continuous trail from the Bear Creek access to Kettlehole Road. Assess the feasibility of constructing bridges to the island near White Fence on the Manistee River. If the
island in section 22 near White Fence is connected with bridges, improve the island with picnic and camping amenities.
•Coordinate with the USFS on trail development, improvements and maintenance.
•Incorporate existing snowmobile trails into the township with spur trails.

F-10 F-11
Cleon Township
Goal 1: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a County wide trail system.
•Use the railroad grade as a trail for connections to Wexford County and Benzie County.
•Locate a trail hub that will serve the convergence of trails from three counties. Develop this trailhead with amenities that may include, but are not limited to, seating,
signage, a roadside park, restrooms and potable water.
•Support the Betsie River Blue Water Trail system.
•Connect to the Betsie Valley Trail in Benzie County.
•Continue to coordinate with the DNR on allowing ORV usage along the rail bed. Place signage to demarcate private and public lands.

Goal 2: Work collaboratively with Copemish Village to plan for, implement and maintain recreation sites that serve the village and the
township.
•Meet annually or biannually with the Village to discuss park improvements and to offer support.
•The Village Parks located in Copemish serve the greater area of Cleon Township. Show support for park improvements by supporting grant applications with letters of
support.
•Establish community and volunteer events centered around recreation.

Goal 3: Establish recreation sites within Cleon Township.

•Develop a picnic area at the Township Hall and Fire Station with a pavilion shelter and picnic tables.
•Improve the Township Hall property with additional recreational infrastructure including, but not limited to, ball fields, a skate park and walking trails.

F-12 F-13
Village of Copemish
Goal 1: Cultivate a strong sense of place in Copemish by enhancing recreation sites and bolstering programming. Goal 3: Continue to support improvements to the Betsie Valley Trail. Take advantage of the regional trail’s contribution to Copemish’s
economy, sense of community and appreciation for the area’s natural assets.
•Host more public events that celebrate the community’s history and unique attributes (similar to Copemish Heritage Days).
•Host smaller events and workshops that appeal to various recreational interests, age groups and physical abilities. •Collaborate with Manistee County and SMART Trails to acquire use of the abandoned railroad bed to improve the Village’s trail segment that connects to the county-wide
trail system and the Betsie Valley Trail system.
•Periodically solicit feedback from the public regarding parks and recreation in Copemish. This may be through surveys, focus groups or public meetings.
•Continue to participate and retain a member with SMARTrails, the county-wide trail committee.*
•Add informational signage at historically significant sites throughout the Village.
•Continue to collaborate with SMARTrails, the Manistee County Planning Department, the Manistee County Recreation Commission and neighboring jurisdictions on
•Regularly update the Village’s website to promote local events throughout the calendar year. multi-use trail development efforts.
•Continue to coordinate with media outlets in the area to market events in Copemish. •Develop separate trailheads for non-motorized uses and snowmobiles at the locations identified on the Future Land Use Map.*
•Honor service members in the community. •Highlight the Betsie Valley Trail and its connection to Copemish on the Village website.
•Add directional signage along the Betsie Valley Trail segment that lies within Copemish to endorse local points of interest and to further link the trailway to the village.
Goal 2: Maintain and improve park facilities so that they are accessible and attractive to a wide user group. •Improve non-motorized connectivity and safety between Lewis Park and the nearby non-motorized trailhead.
•Improve ADA accessibility at Village-operated recreation sites. •Upon improvement of the Betsie Valley Trail, include seating, restrooms, water and bike repair amenities at trailhead sites.
•Make improvements to the Village Hall to allow for increased usage by the community.
*Found in the Village Master Plan
•Add restrooms as needed at park facilities.
•Research potential opportunities to add unique recreational experiences into Copemish’s public spaces. Examples may include, but may not be limited to, a splash park,
zip lines, murals or outdoor sculptures. Engage members of the community to gauge interest in these types of projects.
•Add more playground equipment to Lewis Park and Mish-a-Mish Park.
•Provide drinking fountains at Lewis Park and Mish-a-Mish Park.
•Improve lighting at park facilities.
•Add a covered picnic structure at Mish-a-Mish Park.
•Include directional signage, benches, and improved trail surfaces at First Creek Nature Trails.

F-14 F-15
Dickson Township
Goal 1: Improve park facilities in the township.
•Install lighting at the baseball diamond.
•Install volleyball courts with a sand court.
•Incorporate a campground into the Manikiwa Park in the township.

Goal 2: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a County wide trail system.
•Collaborate with SMARTrails, the Manistee County Planning Department, the Manistee County Recreation Commission and neighboring jurisdictions on multi-use trail
development efforts.

Goal 3: Improve access to the Manistee River.

•Develop river fishing platforms at key points on the Manistee River for easier access to the water.
•Plow the boat launch in the winter months at Blacksmith Bayou and improve the site with amenities to encourage winter usage.
•Add fishing platforms at Blacksmith Bayou.
•Further develop the Explore the Shores site at Tippy Dam to include a Universally Accessible Kayak Launch.
•Create an Explore the Shores site at the USFS High Bridge Access that includes a Universally Accessible Kayak Launch.

F-16 F-17
Village of Eastlake
Goal 1: Improve the Village of Eastlake’s recreation sites.
•Improve Penny Park by developing an ADA accessible fishing pier, paving and further improving the parking lot and adding an additional dock for the bayou.
•Stabilize the shoreline at Penny Park.
•Improve Johnson Field by installing cameras, ensuring accessibility for all users, providing adequate parking, improving landscaping, improving lighting, building a
gazebo, .
•Improve the Nature Walk by maintaining the trails, providing adequate parking, adding seating and developing a gazebo or picnic area.
•Provide accessible features at Eastlake’s recreation sites.
•Improve the Village Hall’s brick foundation, exterior siding and repair the upstairs interior of the building.

Goal 2: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a county-wide trail system.
•Collaborate with SMARTrails, the Manistee County Planning Department, the Manistee County Recreation Commission and neighboring jurisdictions on multi-use trail
development efforts.
•Explore and consider the implementation of a trail or walkway providing access to Penny Park and the Manistee Lake shoreline from the village’s residential areas.

Goal 3: Provide cost-effective, responsive and efficient recreation services and facilities.
•Maintain an advisory committee to the Village Council for recreation improvements, opportunities and grants.

F-18 F-19
Charter Township of Filer
Goal 1: Improve parks and recreation facilities in the township.
•See the Filer Township Park Improvements 2022 table for specific park improvements. The park improvements listed are improvements that need to be made to improve
Table F-1. Filer Township Park Improvements
the specific park mentioned (See Table F-1).
•Include full cutoff lighting fixtures at park facilities to reduce light pollution.

Boardwalk & Observation Deck

Parking Barricade Replacement

•Improve access to water throughout the township.

Shelter House for Winter Use

Building Repair/Additions/

Parking Lot Improvements/

Park Improvements Desired

Trails Trash Receptacles

Playground Equipment
Goal 2: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a County wide trail system.

Pet Waste Stations

Emergency Phone
Changing House
•Implement bike paths separate from roads.

Addition
•Improve safety by creating safe crossing areas across large roads

Update

Restrooms
Bike Rack

Signage
Benches
•If the existing railroad is relocated or other old railroad beds become available (Indian Trail), utilize the land for trails.
•Create a looped paved road shoulder trail loop that connects Red Apple Road, Fox Farm Road and Wildwood Roads.
•Create trail connections throughout the community to school facilities. Canfield Lake
X X X
Boat Launch
Filer City Park X X
Goal 3: Create a system of way-finding to help people navigate throughout the community in order to connect them with recreational
opportunities. Filer Township
X X
Hall
•Form a Way-finding Ad Hoc Committee that will work with the Planning Commission, DDA, and Township Board to create a unified system of signage throughout the Filer Township
community. X X X X X
Rec Center
Magoon Creek X X X X X X X X X X
Oak Hill Park X X
Sundling Park X X X

F-20 F-21
Village of Kaleva
Goal 1: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a County wide trail system and that connect local amenities.
•Collaborate with SMARTrails, the Manistee County Planning Department, the Manistee County Recreation Commission and neighboring jurisdictions on multi-use trail
development efforts.
•Highlight the Betsie Valley Trail and its connection to Kaleva on the Village website.
•Add directional signage along the Betsie Valley Trail segment that lies within the Village to endorse local points of interest and to further link the trailway to the community.
•Link recreation sites in the Village through non-motorized trails.

Goal 2: Promote the cultural and natural assets in Kaleva to encourage greater tourism visitation.
•Meet with the Manistee County Visitors Bureau, the Arts & Culture Alliance of Manistee County and the Kaleva Historical Society to educate them about Kaleva
recreational opportunities.
•Develop marketing materials to increase tourism. Distribute marketing materials on the Village website and through pamphlets at Michigan Welcome Centers and MDOT
rest stops across the state.
•Add historical signage at the cultural sites in the Village.
•Add wayfinding signage to the Village’s various points of interest.
•Add lighting at park facilities.
•Add references to the municipal website on park signage.

Goal 3: Develop recreation site improvements at the Kaleva Village Roadside Park and Campground.
•Develop a service building with flush toilets, showers and electricity.
•Provide electricity to more campsites.
•Assess the feasibility of adding a pool on-site.
•Add playground equipment.
•Increase marketing efforts for the Roadside Park and Campground in conjunction with the projects listed in Goal 2.
•As the Village of Kaleva is identified as a trail hub for the planned Betsie Valley Trail extension, the park should be recognized as a potential staging area for area trails.

F-22 F-23
Manistee Township
Goal 1: Improve public access to Lake Michigan and the Manistee River.

•Improve parking at Bar Lake Outlet by creating a safer parking area.

•Work in collaboration and support the DNR as they work to revitalize the Manistee Marsh. Support DNR improvements for access and parking to the Manistee State
Game Area wildlife viewing platform.
•Explore options for increasing access to Lake Michigan. Increased access to Lake Michigan at Orchard Beach State Park would alleviate excessive use of the Bar Lake
Outlet.

Goal 2: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a County-wide trail system.

•Create a separate bike path from the roads giving careful consideration to incorporating Zimmerman Lane
•Create paths that will accommodate cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling trails.
•Improve safety by creating safe crossing areas across large roads.
•Extend snowmobile trails from M-22 to the northeast.

Goal 3: Promote safe pedestrian and non-motorized mobility throughout the township, especially between recreation sites and local
points of interest.
•Collaborate with SMARTrails, the Manistee County Planning Department, the Manistee County Recreation Commission and neighboring jurisdictions on multi-use trail
development efforts.
•Extend the Zimmerman Trail to the east along the abandoned rail bed and develop a trailhead at the school when this trail addition is completed.
•Coordinate with MDOT and community members to implement traffic calming measures and pedestrian amenities along US-31.

Goal 4: Improve existing recreation facilities.

•Inventory recreation sites for frequency of usage, user needs and opportunities to expand the types of recreation offered at each site.
•Improve parking at water access sites including those at Poplar Street, Birch Street, Maplewood Avenue and Balsam Avenue.
•At the Manistee Township Hall, improve pickleball courts, the picnic area, the ball field, add playground equipment and develop a soccer field.
•Enhance accessibility at Bar Lake Park. Add mobi mats on the beach.
•Add restrooms at the Manistee Township Park at the Township Hall.

F-24 F-25
City of Manistee
Goal 1. Implement improvements to the City’s parks and other recreation sites. Goal 4: Improve access to the community’s water resources.
•See the City of Manistee Park Improvements - 2022 Table for specific park improvements. The park improvements listed are improvements that need to be taken to •Create a zero entry boat launch and undertake other improvements at Arthur Street Boat Launch, Fifth Avenue Beach, the Municipal Marina and the Ninth Street Boat
improve the specific park mentioned. Launch.
•Implement ADA accessible features to support expanded use of Manistee’s water resources.
Goal 2: Identify and acquire land for future recreational opportunities.
•Create a canoe and kayak launch at the south portion of the riverwalk or at any other suitable launch sites.
•Acquire existing railway bed on the southern and northern end of Manistee River to work towards creating a continuous trail route around Manistee Lake ensuring that
•Create an area within the city for crewing.
the trail is connected to the Riverwalk and the County wide trail system.
•Create a pier on Man Made Lake and improve the pier at Douglas Park and the Ninth Street Boat Launch.
•Acquire property to build a splash pad park.
•Acquire the Consumers Property- Arthur Street Parcel #51-101-300-01 which is a 13.6 acre parcel for the purpose of overflow parking for the Arthur Street Boat Launch Goal 5: Develop an eco-tourism economy.
and possible location for a trail segment. If acquisition by the City is not feasible, coordinate with Consumers Energy to support the site as a recreational resource for the
community. •Attract more, and continue to support existing, outdoor rental businesses.

•Coordinate with Morton Salt Inc. to support their property (portion that is south of the park; parcel #06-424-709-01) to allow for improvements and expanded uses as •Continue to meet with the visitors bureau to promote Manistee’s recreation sites through various forms of marketing.
outlined in the park’s master plan.
•Acquire the Consumers Power Company Parcel #51-712-475-01 in order to make improvements to the Ninth Street Boat Launch and in reserve for the adjacent City of Goal 6: Improve recreational programming.
Manistee Waste Water Treatment Facility located north of the launch. •Evaluate and improve gaps in programming for youth.
•Acquire the property west of Washington Street to Harbor Village Channel to extend the Riverwalk to the Harbor Village Channel. •Evaluate and improve gaps in programming for adults.
•Acquire the Consumers Energy property(s), or establish easements, along the river channel to Manistee Lake, just east of the US-31 bridge. This initiative would complete •Evaluate and improve gaps in programming for those with disabilities.
the riverwalk through and around the peninsula to the east portion of Manistee Lake. This should eventually result in connections to a county-wide trail system.
Goal 7: Create new recreational opportunities.
Goal 3: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a county-wide trail system.
•Create a network of trails and bike paths, including on-road and off-road routes, that connect points of interest such as Lake Michigan, neighborhoods, parks, businesses •Create a community ice arena.
and natural areas. •Create a specific park accessible for all kids with no barriers and a wheelchair accessible playground structure
•Continue to work collaboratively with SMARTrails and neighboring jurisdictions in developing a county-wide trail system. •Build an outdoor amphitheater.
•Improve safety by creating safe crossing areas across large roads with specific focus on US-31 between 1st Street and 8th Street. Coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions •Build an outdoor pool.
on pedestrian traffic concerns along roadways that cross through the City. •Build a community recreation center with a climbing wall, indoor pool, childcare, etc.
•Become a part of the Blue Water Trail network. The first step will be establishing a water trailhead within the city. •Identify potential sites for an outdoor fitness center and develop these amenities for public use..
•Develop a snowmobile route with way-finding signage that is connected to the great Manistee County Snowmobile Trail System. •Develop a disc golf course within the city.
•Continue to support improvements and marketing efforts for Bike Highway 35. •Develop a dog park at Morton Park.

F-26 F-27
Table F-2. City of Manistee Park Improvements
CITY OF MANISTEE PARK IMPROVEMENTS - 2022
North
Arthur Fifth Ninth North Riverwalk/ Red
Street Boat Douglas Avenue Man Made Municipal Morton Street Boat Beach Memorial Szymarek South
Launch Park Duffy Park Beach Mack Park Lake Marina Park Launch Access Park Park Reitz Park Sands Park Riverwalk
Ball field:improvements/add x x x
Basin bank stablization x
Batting cages x
Benches x X x x x x x x x x x x
Benches x
Bike lanes x x
Bike rack x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Bleachers x
Blue Trail Access Point x
Boardwalk improvements x
Boat launch-new zero x x x x
Canoe/Kayak Launch x
Crewing/rowing facilities-new x
Cruise Ship Accessibility to x
Disk golf x x x
Docks- x
Dog park &/or Run x x
Drinking water x x x x x x
Fencing x x
Fish cleaning station x x
Flag pole x
Green space area x
Grills x x x x x x x x
Landscaping x x x x
Lighting-improvements/add x x x
Marina x x
Parking lot: improvements/add x x x x x x x x x
Pavilion at "kite flying" area x
Pavillion/Gazebo/Shelter x x x x x x x
Picnic area- x x x x x x x x x x
Pier improvements/addition x x x
Playground equipment: x x x x x x x
Ramp improvements x
Restrooms x x x x x x x
Retaining wall/erosion control x
Road infrastructure improvement x
Rollerblade area x x
Round-About Landscaping x
Shufle boards x x
Sidewalks-repair existing x
Sign improvements x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Soccer Field x x
Splash pad x x x
Sprinler System x
Telescope x x
Tennis court: improvement/add x x
Trail: within park/connected x x x x
Universal accessibility at x
Vending Machines x x x x
Volley ball- add/ improvement x x x x

F-28 F-29
Maple Grove Township
Goal 1: Improve access points along Bear Creek to enhance the user experience while maintaining stewardship of the natural
ecosystem.
•Improve Site #160 (Bear Creek Access) to provide more parking, seating and signage that describes the site’s unique ecological features.
•Improve Site # 162 (Lemon Lake Access Road) to provide an ADA accessible launch, seating, more parking and better road conditions.

Goal 2: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a county-wide trail system.
•Collaborate with SMARTrails, the Manistee County Planning Department, the Manistee County Recreation Commission and neighboring jurisdictions on multi-use trail
development efforts throughout the planning process.
•Highlight the Betsie Valley Trail and its connection to Maple Grove on the Township website.
•Add directional signage along the Betsie Valley Trail segment that lies within the Township to endorse local points of interest and to further link the trailway to the
community.

Goal 3: Connect visitors to recreational points of interest using wayfinding signage and continuous marketing.
•Create a system of wayfinding to help people navigate throughout the community, connecting them to local recreation sites.
•Form a Wayfinding Ad Hoc Committee that will work with the Planning Commission and Township Board to create a unified system of signage throughout the community.
•Continue to partner with MDOT to market the community through informational pamphlets at rest stops throughout the state.
•Highlight recreation sites and local events on the municipal website.

Goal 4: Continue to develop partnerships with organizations in the community that contribute to the area’s recreation opportunities,
as well as those that support conservation efforts.
•Improve the KND property for multi-use trails, snow shoeing, restroom facilities, shelter, parking, and to harvest the timber for revenue. This is the 40-acre parcel in Section
29.
•Improve the KND property for multi-use trails, informational signage, restroom facilities, parking, fishing, placed-based learning opportunities, bird watching and events.
This is the 160-acre parcel in Section 19.

F-30 F-31
Marilla Township
Goal 1: Improve access to the Manistee River.
•Improve the suspension bridge on the Manistee River Trail to ensure it is ADA compliant with improved parking.
•Improve access at Woodpecker Creek by enhancing the boat slide and adding parking.
•Develop an Explore the Shores site on the Hodenpyl Stretch.
•Upgrade boat launches at the Hodenpyl North Tailwater Access and Canoe Portage to allow for easier access for canoes and drift boats.
•Identify opportunities to make river access ADA accessible.

Goal 2: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a County-wide trail system and that connect local points of interest.
•Continue to work collaboratively in developing the County-wide trail system
•Link existing trails to the Marilla Township Hall.
•Develop a trail connection between Memorial Forest to the Marilla Cemetery. Utilize either site as a trailhead with improved lighting, parking, restrooms, seating and
signage.
•Coordinate with the USFS on trail maintenance needs.

Goal 3: Promote and maintain recreational opportunities so that the Township is a year-round tourist destination.
•Create and produce materials which point out the recreational opportunities within the Township.
•Feature community events and recreation opportunities on the municipal website.

Goal 4: Improve existing recreation facilities and expand recreation opportunities in the community.
•Develop hiking, snowshoe, and cross country ski trails on the Township owned 80 acres of land at O.D. Stark Memorial Forest. Include restrooms and signage on-site.
•At the Marilla Township Hall, include a walking path, playground equipment, grills, a pavilion, seating, outdoor restrooms and fitness equipment.
•Improve existing parking, restrooms and eliminate parking fees at the Marilla Country Trailhead.
•Acquire land for new recreation opportunities or to expand existing recreation sites including playgrounds, walking paths, picnic areas, restrooms and covered pavilions.
•Identify a location for athletic fields and courts, preferably adjacent to an existing recreation site.

F-32 F-33
Norman Township
Goal 1: Increase awareness about natural resources and recreational opportunities in Norman Township.
•Meet with the Visitors Bureau to further educate them about the Township's recreational opportunities.

Goal 2: Support work for establishment of trail connections to neighboring communities.

•Continue to work collaboratively with neighboring jurisdictions, Manistee County and SMARTrails to develop a county-wide trail system.
•Continue to support and have a representative serve on a trail planning and implementation team.
•Identify opportunities to link ORV trails to points of interest and neighboring communities in a manner that does not interfere with other uses.

Goal 3: Improve Norman Township’s park amenities.

•At the Norman Township Tippy Pond Boat Launch, support development of a universally accessible fishing platform, a paved walkway to the waterfront, parking
improvements, a boat launch, lighting, grills and seating.
•Create plans for ball fields and courts at the township-owned property on 6th Street.
•Implement the following features at Crystal Lake Park: a trail that circles the lake; a walking trail within the park; seating; a playground; a memorial for veterans and
firefighters; parking; a new retaining wall at the beach; improved volleyball courts; an ADA kayak/canoe launch; a restroom and washing facility; BBQ pits; a pavilion
or gazebo; an event staging area for a farmers market and other public uses; new basketball courts; replace the fishing dock; and improved ADA accessibility on the
entire site and especially to the dock.
•Develop an athletic center within the township.

Goal 4: Maintain, market and improve the community’s rustic trails and blueways.
•Encourage and support development of a back-country loop trail with campsites on USFS lands around the Pine River.
•Further promote the beauty of the Pine River as a blueway trail.
•Support education efforts for “leave no-trace” practices for visitors and residents.

F-34 F-35
Onekama Township
Goal 1: Continue to manage parks and road ends within the Township in a manner that balances user needs, intended uses and Goal 3: Enhance and expand upon the parks and recreation sites in Onekama Township.
ecological stability.
•Where feasible and appropriate, provide seating, potable water, restrooms and lighting at park facilities.
•Develop and implement a master plan for each park in Onekama Township. •Develop a bike path or trail around Portage Lake.
•Conduct an inventory of each park using the Parks Management Plan. •Provide ADA accessibility at recreation sites.
•Keeping original intended uses and purposes of each park in the system in mind, solicit public feedback and input regarding parks and recreation at public meetings. •Continue to support the ongoing stewardship of the Portage Lake Watershed.
•Implement a Park Watchers and Park Advocates program to monitor park properties regularly. Engage members of the community to recruit volunteers. Encourage the •Continue to identify and acquire lands that contribute to environmental preservation, education, viewsheds and recreation experiences.
Advocates to participate in park planning processes.
•Support public education efforts regarding invasive species and septic system monitoring.
•Add signage at road ends that describe their intended uses and designations.
•Improve parking access at recreation sites.
•Add wayfinding, informational and historic signage throughout the community.
•Develop additional hiking trails at park sites in addition to supporting non-motorized connections between recreation sites.
•Conduct assessments of the community’s road ends to evaluate violations.
•Create a disc golf course at the School Forest Property.
•Based on the road ends assessments, prioritize enforcement efforts and present these efforts to the Township Board for review.
•Make improvements to the Township’s boardwalk.
•In order to promote appropriate uses at individual parks, add informational signage, wayfinding signage and interpretive signage. Supported activities at individual
parks will also be listed on the municipal website. •Provide a fish cleaning station for public use.
•Hire a part-time employee to maintain Onekama Township’s parks. •Implement new recreation infrastructure for activities not currently offered in the community. These may include, but are not limited to, a pickleball court, ice skating and
fitness equipment.

Goal 2: Collaborate with other local units of government, Manistee County, businesses and civic organizations to improve existing
Goal 4: Encourage the use of recreation sites by members of the community through effective public engagement, marketing and
park facilities and to identify new parks and recreation opportunities.
partnerships.
•Encourage collaboration between Onekama Township and the Village of Onekama when budgeting and planning for parks and recreation.
•Continue to promote and provide recreation programming for Township residents.
•Appoint members of the Onekama Township Parks and Recreation Committee, or other interested volunteers, to engage with parks and recreation stakeholders to foster
•Offer fitness and recreation classes that cater to various interests and time availability.
ongoing collaborative relationships.
•Install a map of Onekama Recreation sites at a site with high pedestrian traffic.
•Work with neighboring jurisdictions, Manistee County and other relevant stakeholders to identify and implement trail connections.
•Continue to publish a brochure of parks and recreation sites for residents and visitors. These should be placed at the library, Township Hall, bank, restaurants, lodging and
•Identify opportunities to reduce municipal expenditures on parks and recreation maintenance by sharing services with the Village.
other highly visible sites in the community.
•Publish a parks and recreation newsletter for donors and local taxpayers.

F-36 F-37
Village of Onekama
Goal 1: Highlight, preserve and enhance the community’s natural resources to glean their contributions to the environmental, social Goal 3: Administer and publicize Onekama Village parks and recreation to the greatest benefit of the community.
and economic well-being of Onekama.
•Hold regularly scheduled meetings with the planning commissions of neighboring jurisdictions to develop shared visions for community recreation and to identify
•Continue to support Portage Lake’s water quality and pollution monitoring by the Portage Lake Watershed Forever organization, Onekama Township and Onekama opportunities for collaboration and cost-sharing.
Consolidated Schools. •Install a large map of Onekama recreation sites at the Onekama Village Park.
•Support the enforcement of the county-wide septic system monitoring program. •Continue to budget annually for parks and recreation.
•Support the extension of the sewer system into areas where septic systems are endangering the ecological quality of Portage Lake and other bodies of water in the •Inform donors and community members of improvements in, and the current status of, parks and recreation, particularly in instances where donated funds have been used.
community.
•Promote parks fundraising events and activities.
•Support educational initiatives that describe the risks that invasive species pose and best practices for their prevention, management and eradication.
•Continue to collaborate with other local units of government for parks and recreation planning.
•Involve community organizations in efforts to identify and control invasive species in and around Portage Lake.
•Support the MRA and its ability to provide recreation lessons, events and programming.
•Support the Portage Lake Management Plan for the control of invasives both in and around Portage Lake.
•Support the year-round presentation of concerts by local and regional artists.
•Continue to support the Portage Lake Overlay Zone in the Village Zoning Ordinance.
•In association with the Manistee Recreation Association, the Onekama Consolidated Schools, and other organizations, provide recreation programs for residents, seasonal
youth and those with disabilities.
Goal 2: Provide opportunities for enjoying lake views, utilizing the beach and accessing Portage Lake for recreation.

•Explore the possibilities of further dredging and plan a dock extension to improve shore fishing in the Onekama Village Park. Goal 4: Improve and enhance Onekama Village’s parks and recreation facilities for optimal use by residents, seasonal residents and
visitors.
•Support a campaign for legislation to provide Federal funding for dredging of the channel and for the completion of the channel piers renovation.
•Continue to use the donation box for use of the Village boat launch. •Cut and replace trees as needed.
•Renovate or replace the bathhouse.
•Plan for future needs and upgrades in the Onekama Village Park by garnering public input, followed by the creation of a clear implementation strategy.
•Continue to mechanically groom beaches.
•Continue to maintain the Butterfly Park and other green spaces around Farr Center.
•Support multi-use trail planning efforts locally and regionally.
•Install directional, educational and historical signage as needed.
•Support pickleball court maintenance efforts and usage.

F-38 F-39
Pleasanton Township
Goal 1: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a county-wide trail system and that work to connect local points of interest.
•Collaborate with SMARTrails, the Manistee County Planning Department, the Manistee County Recreation Commission and neighboring jurisdictions on multi-use trail
development efforts.
•Work with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy to develop an equestrian trail system that allows for horseback riding, horse carts, and camping with a horse
trailer.
•Improve safety for trail users by developing safe crossing points on major roads.
•Ensure a well connected snowmobile trail throughout the township.
•Develop a designated trail that circles Bear Lake including mile markers to help measure distance.
•Identify roadways that could feature widened shoulders to allow for non-motorized paths.
•Implement a designated non-motorized connection between May Buell Park and the Township Hall.
•Improve snowmobile trail surfaces for adaptive uses (motorized and non-motorized).
•Develop a walking trail loop at Pleasanton Township Hall.

Goal 2: Improve the use of Pleasanton Township parks.

•Improve the park facilities at the Township Hall Park including updating the lighting at the sports field, improving the playground equipment, developing an outdoor
restroom, providing frost-free drinking water, creating a trailhead with signage for snowmobile use and other multi-use trail users and improving seating.
•Develop restroom facilities at Pleasanton Township Park.
•Improve parking, playground equipment and seating at Pleasanton Township Park.
•Implement picnic pavilions at township recreation sites.

Goal 3: Create and improve access opportunities to Bear Lake.

•Continue to identify potential property acquisitions that would promote public access to Bear Lake.
•Support efforts to monitor and steward the ecological quality of Bear Lake.

F-40 F-41
Springdale Township
Goal 1: Improve access to surface water resources.
•Support improvements to the Michigan DNR’s Betsie River access sites at Moore Road & County Line Road and at Dzuibanek & Kurick Roads.
•Make Healy Lake universally accessible for all users.
•Consider making Healy Lake State Forest Campground part of the Explore the Shores program.
•Renew the Township’s lease with the State of Michigan for Healy Lake State Forest Campground.
•Develop an on-shore fishing platform at Healy Lake for improved access to the water.

Goal 2: Improve recreation sites within Springdale Township.

•Provide electrical hookups to the Healy Lake State Forest Campground.
•Install a new electric water pump and well at the Healy Lake State Forest Campground.
•Improve and develop ball fields and athletic equipment at Springdale Township Park.
•Develop pickleball courts at Springdale Township Park.

Goal 3: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a county-wide trail system.
•Make the railroad grade a priority in developing the trail connections.
•Continue to work collaboratively in developing the county-wide trail system.
•Once trail improvements are made to the Betsie Valley Trail, develop Healy Lake State Forest Campground as an established trailhead.
•Coordinate with Manistee County to establish trails for Off-road Vehicles (ORV).

Goal 4: Plan for maintenance and funding of recreational facilities, programming, and future opportunities
•Create a line item in the budget that funds recreation.
•Create a savings mechanism to save funds for recreational purposes.
•Seek out funding sources (grants, endowments) and actively pursue obtaining funding awards.
•Apply for grants that support park and recreation improvements through the County’s Recreation Commission.

F-42 F-43
Stronach Township
Goal 1: Increase awareness about natural resources and recreational opportunities in Stronach.
•Meet with the Visitors Bureau to educate them about the township’s recreational opportunities.
•Explore ways that the Township can use technology to promote recreation.

Goal 2: Develop multi-use trails that are connected to a county-wide trail system.
•Continue to work collaboratively to develop a county-wide trail system.
•Expand and improve the shoulder on Skocelas Road to use for a bike lane.

Goal 3: Improve parks and recreation sites in the township to improve quality and offer more recreation opportunities.
•Add bleachers, develop ADA accessible restrooms and improve parking at Stronach Park with a paved parking area along Stronach Road.
•Improve Claybank Park by adding grills, graveling the parking lot and driveway and developing the park as a trailhead.
•Continue to plan for the maintenance and funding of recreational facilities.
•Develop a fish cleaning station at the boat launch which would be convenient for those fishing Manistee Lake and the Little Manistee River.

F-44 F-45
This page intentionally left blank This page intentionally left blank