How is it that Sierra Club and other national environmental groups advance smart growth campaigns for urban growth because it reduces carbon emissions, but when density projects are proposed here in Traverse City, we lack organized support from the environmental community? The answer, unfortunately, is clear: it’s harder to advocate for something than it is to oppose something – and that’s a real problem.
Conference Shows Michigan’s Commitment to Rail
Ten years ago, if you showed up at Michigan’s top transportation agency and asked for someone in the passenger rail department, you’d be greeted with a strange look, and probably hear something like, “We don’t do that here. Try Amtrak.” But things have changed. These days, not only does MDOT have staff working on passenger rail, they have a whole office dedicated to improving train service. In fact, freight and passenger trains are one of the state’s top priorities.
Mt. Pleasant is ready for trains
Hans Voss and Jim Bruckbauer recently traveled to Mt. Pleasant for a meeting with city staff and community leaders about the Ann Arbor to Traverse City passenger rail project. During our visit, one thing was made clear: Mt. Pleasant is ready for trains.
The VISTA Experience
My name is Carol Danly and I am a new AmeriCorps VISTA with United Way, assigned to the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities in support of the Food and Farming Network.
A2TC Rail Project Gains Steam
The Groundwork Center’s effort to establish passenger rail on a set of state-owned tracks between Ann Arbor and Traverse City is gaining steam. Since our big kick-off earlier this year, we’ve been meeting with civic leaders and transportation officials all along the line on how to build a successful public campaign, and with officials in Lansing to advance the necessary studies to run the trains.
Alana Steps Aboard: Taking the Bus to Suttons Bay
Groundwork intern Alana Tartaro is new to Michigan and the Grand Traverse region. This summer, she’ll be stepping aboard as many buses as she can to travel the area and figure out how to get around without a car.