Groveland Twp.- Walkers or bikers heading south could end up at Belle Isle near Detroit, while those trekking north could arrived at Ironwood located on the western fringe of the Upper Peninsula.
Either destination could soon be accessible from the township if a proposal to connect the Iron Belle Trail is approved.
From 5-7 p.m., Oct. 29, an overview will be presented at the Brandon Township Library to receive public input on the project.
‘If the trail does go through the township there’s a good chance it will follow along M-15 for about two miles,? said Kristen Wiltfang, a senior planner for the Oakland County Economic Development & Community Affairs who discussed the trail project at the Sept. 12 township board of trustees meeting. ‘But the route is yet to be determined.?
The 10-foot wide trail created to be paved or covered in limestone will be used by runners, walkers or bicyclists and would connect with existing trails including the Polly Ann Trail and Paint Creek Trail. The trail is proposed through Ortonville and Brandon Township as well as Atlas Township, Grand Blanc, Davison, and Columbiaville.
Wiltfang referred to the website walkscore.org to rate locations in the townships with regard to car-dependency. A score of one means a vehicle is needed to get there compared to 100 which means the site is easily accessed. The site evaluates walking opportunities between homes and businesses, schools, and more.
Wiltfang pinpointed the township’s Oakwood Plaza near M-15 and Oakwood roads at Bueche’s Food World. The site received a score of 30 which means it’s relatively car dependent. She also reported the intersection of Dixie and Grange Hall roads received a score of six, almost totally car dependent.
Bob DePalma, township supervisor said the community has expressed an interest in the trails.
‘About 200 residents have stopped by the township office and signed the petition in support of trails,? he said. ‘Most people seem to support the idea’but there is not a specific location determined yet. Also, we do not have a millage for matching funds if a grant is needed.?