LANSING, Mich., May 3, 2023 — The House of Representatives voted on  House Bill 4238 today. This bill contains funding for Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund capital outlay projects. There are 15 land acquisition projects funded at $15 million and 30 land development projects totaling $8.3 million. After the vote, Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City) issued the following statement regarding the three projects that will benefit constituents in and around District 103:

“The great outdoors just got greater with this $23.3 million in investments, and I was proud to vote for them on behalf of the residents of Benzie and Grand Traverse counties. Families and community members taking part in outdoor activities will have increased conveniences, accessibility to nature and common community areas. Our natural beauty and green spaces are among our greatest assets, in Northwest Michigan and across the state, and I’m proud to vote for improving and increasing access to outdoor recreation opportunities.” 

Local Investments: 

    1. City of Traverse City — Grand Traverse
      • Bayfront Restroom Amenities: Two restrooms along Traverse City’s bayfront will be replaced. These facilities will serve the Traverse Area Recreation Trail, west end beach and volleyball courts.
    2.  Grand Traverse
      • Jaxon Creek Headwaters Acquisition: Grand Traverse will gain 160 acres of forestland, including the headwaters and a quarter mile of Jaxon Creek, a cold-water trout stream that is a tributary to the Boardman River. This upland property includes aspen, pine and oak trees. The remainder consists of lowland conifer around the headwaters of Jaxon Creek. Recreation opportunities for this land include hunting, fishing, trapping and hiking.
    3. Benzie County
      • Railroad Point Water Access: Development of water access to Crystal Lake using boardwalks, an overlook, a seasonal dock and a kayak launch to provide access to the lake. The site will be improved with a picnic area, benches, signage, gravel parking, drop-off area, portable restroom enclosure and connected pathway to the intersection for Betsie Valley Trail. The project also includes adding native plants along the shoreline.