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Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan

2015-2020

COMMERCE, WALLED LAKE AND WIXOM TRAIL MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan 2015-2020

(Adopted February 10, 2015)

Commerce, Walled Lake and Wixom Trailway Management Council

REC'D MAR t 0 2015

January 2015

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Commerce Township. Walled Lake, & Wixom Trailway Management Council Thomas Zoner, Chair, Commerce Township John Owsinek, Vice Chair, City of Walled Lake Tony Nowicki, City of Wixom

Kathleen Jackson, Township Planner, Commerce Township

Commerce Township Board Members Thomas Zoner, Supervisor Vanesa Magner, Clerk Susan L. Gross, Treasurer Brian Berkheiser, Trustee David Law, Trustee Robert J. Long, Trustee Rick Sovel, Trustee

Walled Lake City Council Members Linda Ackley, Mayor Robert Robinson, Mayor Pro-Tern Casey Ambrose Tamra Loch John Owsinek William Sturgeon Dennis Y ezbick

City of Wixom Council Members Kevin W. Hinkley, Mayor Rich Ziegler, Deputy Mayor Pa tick Beagle Michael Giddings Nicholas Kennedy Lori Rich Thomas Rzeznik Tony Nowicki, City Manager

Oakland County Economic Development Services & Community Affairs Kristen \\!iltfang, Senior Planner

Commerce, Walled Lake, \Vixom Trailway Management Council

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acknowledgements ............................ ................................................................................................................. i Table of Contents .............................................................................................................................................. ii

I. COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION ..................................................................................... 1

II. ADMINISTRA.TIVE STRUCTURE ............................................................................... 3

III. RECREATION INVENTORY ....................................................................................... 6

IV. RESOURCE INVENTORY .......................................................................................... 10

V. DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING AND PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS .............. 13

VI. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................... 17

VII. ACTION PROGRAM ..................................................................................................... 19

TABLES: Table 1: Popwation ............................................................................................. 2 Table 2: Analysis of Existing Facilities ......................................................................... 9 Table 3: Park Acreage Evaluation ....................................................................................... 14 Table 4: Recreation Facilities Evaluation .............................................................................. 15 Table 5: Universal Access Design Considerations Table .................................................. 16 Table 6: Estimated Cost for Non-Motorized Trail Development ....................................... 19 Table 7: Annual Maintenance Costs per Mile of Pave Trail ................................................ 20

MAPS: Map 1: Michigan Airline Trail Location ..................................................................... 8 Map 2: The Missing Mile ..................................................................................... 21

APPENDIX A: APPENDIXB:

APPENDIXC: APPENDIXD:

Michigan Air Line T'rail Power Point Oakland County Non-Motorized Transportation Network, Linked Path & Trail System and Green Infrastructure. Inter-Local Agreement Public Input Process/Notices

DNR Checklist Resolution Public Notices

• June 11, 2014 • November 25, 2014

• January 9, 2015 Agendas

• June 11, 2014 • November 25, 2014

1\1inutes/Summary Reswts • November 25, 2014

Transmittal Letters

• MDNR • Oakland County • SEMCOG

Commerce, \Xlalled Lake, Wixom T railway Ivfanagement Council

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I. COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION

A. Location

The jurisdiction of the Michigan Airline Railway Trail Master Plan includes Commerce Township, the City of Walled Lake, and the City of Wixom. The Master Plan's focus includes the acquisition and development of the former Coe railroad right-of-way into a non-motorized pathway ("rails-to-trails"), to be known as the Michigan Airline Railway Trailway.

Railroad Corridor in the City of "7ixom

The Coe Railroad Corridor in the City of \Xfixom extends from the intersection of the Coe Railroad and CSX Transportation Railroad located just west of Wixom Road to Beck Road (eastern border of the City of Wixom).

Railroad Corridor in the City of Walled Lake

The Coe Railroad Corridor in the City of \\;1 alled Lake extends from the intersection of the Coe Railroad with the western border of the City of Walled Lake, just west of Ladd Road to the eastern border of the City of \Xf ailed Lake, midway between Decker Road and Welch Road.

Railroad Corridor in western Commerce Township

The \\/ estern Segment of the Coe Railroad Corridor in Commerce Township extends from Beck Road to the western border of the City of Walled Lake, just west of Ladd Road.

Railroad Corridor in eastern Commerce Township

The Eastern Segment of the Coe Railroad Corridor in Commerce Township extends from the eastern border of the City of\Valled Lake, midway between Decker Road and \Xfelch Road, to Haggerty Road.

B. History

Trails help connect people with nature, help children get to school safely, provide more people access to exercise and recreation opportunities, bring families together, and are good for our economy.

Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance (MTGA) Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance (MTGA) fosters and facilitates the creation of an interconnected statewide system of trails and greenways for environmental and cultural preservation purposes. MTGA works at both the state and local levels by assisting public and private interest in trail and greenway planning, funding, development and maintenance. MTGA builds public support for trail and greenway development through events, membership, education, information and advocacy activities. The original 2009 master plan for the Michigan Airline Trail was supported by grant funds provided by MTGA.

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Michigan Airline Trail A cross-state "super" trail, the Michigan Airline Trail, follows what was once the Michigan Airline Railway, from South Haven to Port Huron (see Appendix A, MI Airline Trail PowerPoint). Eleven existing multi-use trail sections follow this 200+ mile historical route, including the Kal-Haven, the Kalamazoo River Trailway, the Battle Creek Linear Path, the Falling Waters Trail, the Jackson Intercity Bike Trail, the LakeLands Trail, the Huron Valley Trail, the West Bloomfield Trail, the Clinton River Trail, the Macomb Orchard Trail and the Bridge to Bay Trail. Many communities within the few remaining gaps are working on trail and/ or on-road non-motorized connections. With so many trails already on the ground, it is the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance's (MTGA) goal that this shore-to-shore opportunity will be realized in the near future so that the tourism, transportation, and recreation benefits of all the individual trails can be maximized in one continuous route.

The portion of trail, formerly Coe railroad, which runs through the communities of Commerce, Wlalled Lake, and Wixom measures approximately 28,800 linear feet or 5.45 miles. The trail will start on the west side of Haggerty Road on the east to just west of \X!ixom Road on the west. Once developed, it will bridge the gap between the Huron Valley Trail, the West Bloomfield Trail and the M-5 Metro Trail

C. Population

The populations for the three communities in the Trail Management Council are listed in the Table 1 below:

Table 1: Population Community 2000 u. s. 2010 2013

Population

Commerce 30,349 Township Walled Lake 6,713 Wixom 13 263

Total: 50,325 Sources: US Bureau of the Census, 2000, 2010; SEMCOG

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom Trailway ~fanagement Council

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Population Population (SEMCOG)

40,186 40,816

6,999 7,053 13.498 13.581 60,683 61,450

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II. ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE

Role of the Trailway Management Council The Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom (CWL\v') Trailway Management Council was approved by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources on June 12, 2009 and established on June 17, 2009 (see Appendix C, Inter-local Agreement).

Each of the Parties (Charter Township of Commerce, City of Walled Lake, and the City of \Xlixom) is a "governmental agency" and a "public agency" with the powers to carry out the undertakings and purposes described below.

The Council is a public body corporate having those powers described in Act 7, J\1ichigan Public Acts of 1967, as amended, and Part 721 of Act 451, Michigan Public Acts of 1994, as amended.

The purpose of the Council is to acquire, construct, develop, manage, operate and maintain a trailway, as defined in Act 451.

The Council shall consist of three voting members. Voting members of the Council shall be appointed by the governing body of each Party in accordance ·with the Interlocal Agreement. Each Party may also appoint one alternate member of the Council who may attend meetings but ma3r vote only in the absence of the voting member.

At the initial meeting, held on June 22, 2009, a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary /Treasurer were elected. At the first meeting of each fiscal year thereafter, the Council shall elect its officers. Officers shall serve for terms of one year or until their successors are elected.

The Council shall not have the power to levy any type of tax or to issue any type of bond in its own name, or in any way to indebt and Party.

Organizational Chart and Staff Description Each community shall share the responsibility for operating and maintaining the trailway in each jurisdiction's portion of the trail.

Operation and maintenance of the trail are provided by the Administrations of each community, as illustrated in the following chart:

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom Trailway IVfanagement Council

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I Residents

I I

I I I Commerce Township City of Wailed Lake City of Wixom Supervisor & Board Mayor & City Council Mayor & City Council

I I I I

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom (CWLW) Trailway Management Council

I Michigan Airline Trail

Programming Programming for the trail, once developed, will be provided by the CWLW Trailway Management Council in cooperation with Commerce Township and the Cities of\Valled Lake and Wixom.

Initial Financial Support The Council shall be funded initially from contributions of $1,000.00 from each of the Parties and from other contributions, such moneys to be deposited in a separate depository account in the name of the Trailway Council.

Fiscal Year; Annual Budget; Contributions: a. The fiscal year of the Council shall commence on the first day of January in each year and

end on the last day of December. The fiscal year of the Council may be changed from time to time as determined by resolution of the Council.

b. The Council shall prepare and submit to the governing bodies of the Parties an annual budget for their approval before adoption by the Council. No budget shall be adopted unless approved by a unanimous vote of the Council members then serving.

c. Administrative costs shall be allocated equally among the Parties.

d. Operation and Maintenance expenses of the trailway shall be the sole responsibility of the Party having jurisdiction over the property upon which the trailway is constructed.

e. Each Party shall be required to make its annual payment to the Council not later than one month prior to the start of the Council's fiscal year.

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Roles of Volunteers Volunteers may assist with the cleanup, maintenance, marketing and programming of the trail, once developed.

Description of the Relationship between the Council and Recreation Departments The Council will coordinate trailway management with each of the Recreation Departments from the three participating communities.

Commerce, Walled Lake, \V'ixom Trailway ]'vfanagement Council

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III. RECREATION INVENTORY

Description of Methods Used to Conduct the Inventory The CWL W Trail way Management Council retained the services of ASTI Environmental to conduct a natural features assessment of the Coe Railroad Corridor in July 2009. The report was published on July 16, 2009 and a summary of the findings can be found in Section IV., Resource Inventoty. Information on the proposed trail and other adjacent trails was compiled from resources provided by MTGA and Oakland County.

Trail Inventory The proposed Michigan Airline Railway trail, is considered to be a major regional trail in the Oakland County Trail network, filling a key gap between the existing M-5 Metro Trail, the West Bloomfield Trail, and the proposed Huron Valley Trail (See map on page 8). It follows a portion of the f01mer Coe Railroad consisting of approximately 28,800 linear feet or 5.45 miles (32.9 acres), will traverse the communities of Commerce Charter Township, the City of Walled Lake, and the City of Wixom (see MI Airline Railway Trailway map and Appendix B).

Commerce Charter Township, the City of Wixom and the City of Walled have Parks &

Recreation Plans. Community descriptions, recreation inventories, and additional information required by the MDNR can be found in each of these three Recreation Master Plans to supplement the Michigan Arline Trail Master Plan. Additional details can be found in each community's Master Plan.

Huron Valley Trail The Huron Valley Trail is State owned and locally managed by the West Oakland County Trailway Management Council. The trail links South Lyon to Wixom along the former Grand Trunk Railroad with a connector to Island Lake and Kensington Metro Park.

The Huron Valley Trail extends from the City of South Lyon, through Lyon Township and into Milford Township, then south on Old Plank Road to Pontiac Trail, and east on Pontiac Trail along the north side of Lyon Oaks County Park to the Wixom City boundary. An extension to the west goes through Lyon Township Park and along Grand River Avenue into Island Lake State Recreation Area, where it crosses under I-96 to connect to the trail system in Kensington Metropark. The total length of this asphalt trail is approximately 10.5 miles and provides connections to over 25 miles of adjoining trails.


West Bloomfield Trail The \Vest Bloomfield Trail was once part of the interurban railroad in Oakland County. Opened in 1992, the West Bloomfield Trail stretches 4.25 miles through the communities of West Bloomfield, Orchard Lake, Keego Harbor and Sylvan Lake. The 162 acre West Bloomfield \-~loods Nature Presenre anchors the western trailhead and Sylvan Manor Park, a small neighborhood park, serves as the eastern trailhead. Sylvan

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Manor Park also serves as a western trailhead for the Clinton River Trail (16 miles), enabling users to continue to the northeast toward Pontiac. The total length of the crushed limestone trail is approximately 4.25 miles. The West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Commission is working on acquiring an additional 2.5 miles of the former Coe rail to link to Commerce Township. More than twenty nature interpretive sites give visitors the opportunity to see various habitats.

Lakes Community Trail This asphalt trail was constructed in the early 2000's and varies between 6-8 feet wide. The Lakes Community Trail begins at the corner of South Commerce Road and Oakley Park Road in the center of Commerce Township. The trail then runs south and west through Hickory Glen Parks, Clare Miller Park (Wolverine Lake), Maple Glen Park and ends at Gilbert Willis Park (\"Xlixom). The total length of the trail is approximately 3.5 miles.

Accessibility Assessment The trail is in the initial planning stages at this point and has not been acquired or constructed. However, at the time of design and construction, the trail will incorporate the principals of universal access design considerations (see Table 5: Universal Access Design Considerations).

Status Report for all Grant-Assisted Parks and Recreation Facilities The Trailway Management Council was fotmed in June 2009. The Council received a MDNRTF Acquisition Grant for acquiring ROW to develop the Trail in the 2011 grant cycle. The MDNR has since set the market value for the property that needs to be purchased at approximately $2.6 million. If the owner accepts this amount the acquisition could be completed as soon as April of 2015. Individual status reports for all grant assisted parks and recreation facilities are provided in each of the three communities' Park and Recreation Master Plans.

Commerce, \X!alled Lake, \Vixom Trailway lvlanagement Council

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Map 1: Michigan Airline Trail Location

Proposed Ml Aitlin Railway Tran

Exls Ing Wes B1oomfieldTrail

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom Trailway Management Council

8

ail

Existing 1-275 Metro Trail

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Type of Facility Recreation Standards

Linear Parks A linear park is any area developed for one or more modes of recreation travel, such as hiking, bicycling, snowmobiling, cross-countiy skiing, canoeing, horseback riding, and pleasure driving.

Park trails are multi-purpose trails located within greenways, parks and natural resource areas. Focus is on recreational value and harmony with the natural environment.

Connector trails are multi-purpose trails that emphasize safe travel for pedestrians to and from parks and around the community. Focus is as much on transportation as it is on recreation.

l\!Iilford - Kensington Trail


Table 2 Analysis of Existing Facilities

CWLW Trailway Management Council

Built or natural corridors, such as utility rights-of-way, abandoned railroad easements, bluff lines, vegetation patterns, and roads that link other components of the recreation system or community facilities, such as schools, libraries, commercial areas, and other park areas and desirable site characteristics may be developed into linear parks.

Paint Creek Trail Pond Overlook

9

Comments /Recommendations

The CWLW Trailway Management Council is in the process of acquiring approximately 5.5 miles of the former COE railroad. The Council received two appraisals of the property to utilize an MNRTF acquisition grant, which MDNR used to set the market value at approximately $2.6 Million. If the owner accepts this amount the acquisition could be completed as soon as April of 2015.

A fter acquisition, the CWLW Trailway Management Council should pursue development of the trail into a paved non-motorized pathway and coordinate with both the West Bloomfield ( 4.25 crushed stone miles, plus 2.5 miles in the process of acquisition) and Huron Valley (10 paved miles) Trails.

The three communities should continue efforts to link their non-motorized facilities into the future Michigan Airline Trail.

Paint Creek Trail

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IV. RESOURCE INVENTORY

Environmental Features The trail is environmentally compatible with and similar to the features found along the existing \\!est Bloomfield and Huron Valley Trails. The environmental assessment below was conducted by ASTI Environmental on July 8, 2009. For more details, please refer to the following report: Natural Features Assessment Coe Railroad Corridor in the Ciry of Wixom, Ciry ef Walled Lake & Charter Township of Commerce (dated July 16, 2009).

Wixom Segment The Coe Railroad Corridor in the City of Wixom contains a 6.31-acre wetland (Wetland A). The wetland is comprised of open water and emergent vegetation that provides a wide diversity of habitat for a variety of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. The wetland vegetation is dominated by yellow and white pond lily, cattail, and sedge species. The vegetative cover within the emergent vegetation is dense, providing cover and suitable nesting sites. Animals observed in the wetland included common moorhen, red-wing blackbirds, marsh wren, and painted turtles.

No plant or animal species listed on the Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI) were observed during the site investigation. The presence of species on the property and adjoining properties are unlikely.

The Wixom portion of the Coe Railroad corridor vegetation is dominated by deciduous and coniferous trees, lawn, and grasses. The coniferous trees were planted as hedge rows along most of the residential properties providing adequate screening. Areas without hedge rows along the north side of the corridor are screened during the summer by deciduous trees. After leaf drop the area to the north will be open providing views to the park and horse race track. A field to the north of the corridor is dominated by a variety of grasses, black-eyed Susan, white sweet clover, and wild carrot and is visually aesthetic in appearance and allows for wildlife observation opportunities.

The wide range of vegetation present including deciduous and coniferous trees, grassland species, shrubs, and wetland species gives rise to a variety of habitats for wildlife. Fruiting vegetation provides food. Flowering vegetation attracts insects that, in turn, attract flycatchers and other bird and bat species. Dense vegetation provides adequate cover and nesting sites. The wetland attracts a variety of different animals and bird species.

Walled Lake Segment The Coe Railroad Cori-idor in the City of Walled Lake contains three wetlands (Wetland D, E, and F) totaling 34.55-acres.

Wetland Dis a 3.75 acre emergent wetland. The wetland vegetation is dominated by cattail, rice cut grass, and sedge species. The vegetative cover within the emergent vegetation is dense in some areas, providing cover and suitable nesting sites. Animals observed in the wetland included red-wing blackbirds, Canada geese, and painted turtles. Westland, 500 feet east of Ladd


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Wetland E is a 30 acre wetland comprised of open water, scrub shrub, and emergent zones . The wetland -vegetation is dominated by cattail, pond lily, and willow. The -vegetati-ve co-ver within the scrub shrub and emergent zones are dense and pro-vide cover and suitable nesting sites. Animals observed in the wetland included red-wing blackbirds, black-capped chickadee, Canada geese, and mallard.

\Vetland Fis a 0.8 acre forested wetland. The wetland -vegetation is dominated by willow. The understory provides a variety of habitats that may be utilized by a variety of species. No animals were observed in Wetland F during the site investigation.

The Walled Lake portion of the Coe Railroad corridor vegetation is dominated by deciduous trees, wild flowers, cattail, and grasses. The majority of the corridor is forested with a welldeveloped understo1y. The dominate trees included sumac, box elder, and oak.

The wide range of vegetation present including deciduous trees, grassland species, shrubs, and wetland species gives rise to a variety of habitats for wildlife. Fruiting vegetation provides food. Flowering vegetation attracts insects that, in turn, attract flycatchers and other bird and bat species. Dense -vegetation provides adequate cover and nesting sites. The wetland attracts a variety of different animals and bird species .

Western Corridor of Commerce Township Segment

Existing Railroad, 500 feet west of M-5

The Coe Railroad Corridor in Commerce Township contains wetlands 0Vetland B and C) totaling 12.60 acres. The wetlands are comprised of open water, emergent, and scrub shrub vegetation tl1at provide a wide diversity of habitat for birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. The wetland vegetation is dominated by rice cut grass, cattail, and sedge species . The vegetative cover within the emergent vegetation is dense, providing cover and suitable nesting sites. Animals observed in the wetland included red-wing black birds, Canada geese, and bullfrog.

The Commerce Township portion of the Coe Railroad corridor vegetation is dominated by deciduous, wild flowers, and grasses . Dominant tree species include sumac, oak, box elder, and maple. The wide range of vegetation present including deciduous trees, grassland species, shrubs, and wetland species gives rise to a variety of habitats for wildlife. Fruiting vegetation provides food. Flowering vegetation attracts insects that, in turn, attract flycatchers and other bird and bat species. Dense vegetation provides adequate cover and nesting sites.

Eastern Corridor of Commerce Township Segment The Coe Railroad Corridor in Commerce Township contains 20 .44 acres of wetland 0Vetland G, H, I, J, and K) .

Wetland G is a 10-acre open water and emergent wetland that provides a wide diversity of habitat for a variety of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. The wetland vegetation is dominated by rice cut grass, cattail, and sedge species. The

Open \Xlater Wetland, 700 feet east of M-5

i\!lichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020


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January 2015

vegetative cover within the emergent zone is dense, providing cover and suitable nesting sites. Animals obsenred in the wetland included red-wing blackbirds, Canada geese, and painted turtles.

Wetland Hand J are 0.20-acre and 0.08-acre open water wetlands (respectively) that provide microhabitats suitable for some amphibian and bird species. The wetland vegetation is dominated cattail. No animals were observed in the wetland during the site investigation.

Wetland I is a 6.90-acre open water, emergent, and scrub shrub wetland that provides a wide diversity of habitat for a variety of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish. The wetland vegetation is dominated by rice cut grass, cattail, willow, dogwood, and sedge species . The vegetative cover within the emergent and scrub shrub zones is dense, providing cover and suitable nesting sites. Animals observed in the wetland included red-wing blackbirds, egret, green heron, and Canada geese.

\X!etland K is a 3.22-acre open water and emergent wetland. The wetland vegetation is dominated by cattail. The close proximity to the intersection and to industry reduces the habitat value. No animals were observed in the wetland at the time of the site investigation.

Natural Resources Recreation Opportunities The Coe Railroad Corridor prmrides opportunities to view wildlife and birds along with educational opportunities.

Wetland A contains open water and emergent zones, a variety of vegetation and cover, which provide habitat for a wide variety of species of birds and animals. The field provides viewing opportunity for grassland birds and flycatchers.

Wetlands D, E, and F are different types of wetlands providing open water, emergent, scrub shrub, and forested zones, a variety of vegetation and cmrer, which provide habitat for a wide variety of species of birds and animals. Typical Overlook

A dense forested area, located along the proposed trail, with a semi-open understoq provides habitat for wildlife and birds. The forested area is dominated by deciduous trees of varying height and age. The area is utilized by white-tailed deer and other mammals along with birds.

Wetlands G and I are high quality wetlands that contain open water, emergent, and scrub shrub zones, a variety of vegetation and cover, and provide habitat for a wide variety of species of birds and animals.

Climate The tri-community area receives approximately 31 inches of precipitation and 32 inches of snow fall annually. Yearly temperatures average 73 degrees in the summer and 25 degrees in the winter. This climate is suitable for a variety of outdoor recreational activities throughout the year such as: hiking, biking, in-line skating, cross country skiing, etc.


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V. DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING AND PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS

The Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom (CWLW) Trailway Management Council was approved by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources on June 12, 2009 and established on June 17, 2009.

An initial plan for the Trail, the Michigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2009-2014, was prepared by the Commerce, Walled Lake, and Wixom Trailway Management Council. This plan, will update the previously approved plan. The Master Plan preparation was funded by the Commerce, Walled Lake, \Xlixom Trail Council. The plan was prepared with the assistance of McKenna Associates, a planning consulting fum, and with assistance from Oakland County Economic Development and Community Affairs Department. Resident input, through public hearings and a public input/ focus group session, also served as key contributions to this report.

Throughout the process, all meetings were open to the public. Notices were posted beforehand, and advertised in the newspaper, as required by the Open Meetings Act.

A kickoff and organizational public meeting was held with the CWLW Trailway Management Council, at their regular meeting on June 11, 2014 to begin the planning process and discuss project objectiYes and plan goals. Public notice was published in the Oakland Press

A public workshop/ focus group meeting was held at the Commerce Township Hall on November 25, 2014 to seek input from residents of the respective communities and trails users regarding the trails recreation master plan and the Michigan Air-Line Railway MNRTF acquisition grant. Public notice was published in the Oakland Press. The workshop allowed the C\VL\V' Trailway Management Council to gain a better understanding of the communities' desires and opinions related to trails and the positive effects of future trail development. The workshop was attended by 20 persons, including residents from Commerce Township, \Xlalled Lake and Wixom.

The workshop was successful at generating additional ideas and priorities while at the same time supporting the common themes discussed with CWL W Trail way Management Council and individual communities throughout the plan process. Specific feedback was received on the plan goals, potential implementation projects, priority trail gateways, and potential trail names. A summary of comments can be found in the appendix.

On Thursday January 0, 2015 a notice was published in the Oakland Press notifying the public that the draft Parks and Recreation Master Plan was available for the required IvlDNR 30-day review period starting January 9, 2015.

A copy of the draft plan was made available to the public at Commerce Township Hall, 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Township, MI 48390. Additional copies were provided at the Cities of Walled Lake and Wixom.

A public hearing was held, after the required 30 day review period, by CWLW Trailway Management Council on February 10, 2015 to hear public comment and adopt the MI Airline Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020. Several citizens showed up at the public hearing to support the

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trail. The final adopted plan was sent to the MDNR by March 1, 2015. The Plan was adopted by the Councils member communities as follows: by Commerce Township on February 10, 2015; by Walled Lake on February 17, 2015, and by Wixom on February 17, 2015.

Comparison to Recreation Standards The provision of parks and recreation facilities are vital to a community's quality of life for its residents and those from outside the community alike. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRP A) have established a set of standards based on the size of the community as determined by population and the ratio of the acreage or facilities to the population. These standards establish a baseline for assessing the community's parks and recreation facilities, but can be tailored to meet the needs of the specific community. Standards can be increased or decreased based on the facility or activity desired or those which are not needed or wanted in the community, such as badminton courts versus the desire for increased tennis courts or soccer fields. Table 3 identifies the NRP A standards and the number of park acres present in the community compared to the recommended standards. Table 4 identifies the recommended number of facilities based upon existing and future population.

T bl 3 P kA a e : ar creage E 1 va uat10n Recommended

Existing Type of Facility Min. Acreage Per

1,000 Residents1 Acreage2

Linear Park3 Variable TBD

Footnotes: 1 Based 011 National Recreation and Parks Association recommendations. 2 Based on SEMCOG 2013 population estimate far the tri-tvmmu11ity area. 61,450 3 Future COE RaiLr-to-TraiLr non-motorized pathw01

Need Based on Standard2

N/A

Table 4: Recreation Facilities Evaluation

Type of Facility Standard1 Existing Public F acilities2

Trails 1 system per region 1

Footnotes: 1 Based 011 ]\Tational Recreation and Parks Association recommendatiom. 2 Lakes Co1mmmi"(:y Trail

Need Based on Standard

1

Bonus/ (Deficiency)

N/A

Bonus/ (Deficiency)

NA

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RECREATION EVALUATION

Existing Conditions

MidJigat1 Star Clipper Dinner Train

The proposed trail consists of the former COE railroad and currently hosts the Michigan Star Clipper Dinner Train and other special train excursions from its depot located in Walled Lake, MI. Segments of the railroad corridor are no longer in use.

The trail will connect a variety of destinations including the \Vest Bloomfield Nature Preserve, Pleasant Lake Elementary School, Walnut Creek Middle School, Walled Lake Western High School, Gunnar Mettala Park, and downtown Wixom.

The route will intersect with the MDOT M-5 Metro Trail, which traverses from Pontiac Trail south to the I-275 Bike Path and connect to the West Bloomfield Bike path. North of Pontiac Trail is a proposed development that will include the Martin Parkway and is planned to include multiple non-motorized trail systems and public amenities.

Programs Once developed, a number of programs and special events should be held to promote the trailway. Trail programming may include:

• Self-guided Scavenger Hunts

• Nordic Walking Clinics

• Tales on the Trail

• Local History and Environmental Walks

• Mutt Strutters

• Interpretive Nature Walks

• Walking and Fun Run Events

• Father-Daughter Take a Walk Together Days

• Trail Maintenance (Source: Kalamazoo River Valley Trail)

Safety Safety and the perception of safety are important to increasing the use of existing parks. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a program adopted nationally that increases the perception of safety for a normal user and the perception of 11.sk for a would-be offender. CPTED" is [the] proper design and effective use of the built environment which can lead to a reduction in the incidence and fear of crime and an improvement in the quality of life ... " (National Crime Prevention Institute, 1986). Four principles are utilized:

1. Natural Surveillance - the placement of physical features, activities and people in such a way as to maximize visibility;

2. Natural Access Control - the physical guidance of people coming and going from a space by the judicial placement of entrances, exits, fencing, landscaping and lighting;

Commerce, \Valled Lake, \\!ixom Trailway Management Council

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3. Territorial Reinforcement- the use of physical attributes that express ownership, such as fences, pavement treatments, art, signs and landscaping; and

4. Maintenance - regular maintenance gives the impression that parks and facilities are cared for and watched. Poor maintenance makes the parks and facilities feel abandoned and encourage vandalism and graffiti.

The Management Council should adopt and utilize the CPTED program along the trail corridor. Recreation staff and maintenance personnel should perform and keep inspection logs for each portion of their trail to help prioritize on-going maintenance, repair and replacement.

Accessibility Access to the proposed trailway can be improved not only by installing additional barrier-free pathways, bike routes, and bike lanes linkages, but by providing wayfinding signage within each community; better field identification; large print on signage and Braille for those who are visually impaired; and strategically located trail heads, barrier-free parking and drop-off areas.

The following table lists design aspects that should be considered when designing trails for universal accessibility.

Table 5: Universal Access Design Considerat10ns Type of Universal Access Design Considerations: Recreation Facility Trail and Pathway:

Boardwalk:

• •

•

\\!ider width so two people can walk side by side or people can pass

Unitary Surface like concrete, boardwalk or asphalt, crushed aggregate/ screenings that have been "stabilized" or natural soils enhanced with soil stabilizers

Transition plates between trail and pedestrian bridges, decks, etc .

• Contrasting color treatment of the surface and textured surface treatments such as brushed concrete at intersections or interpretive stations to cue people who have visual impairments that there is something to pay attention to at that spot

• Close to level cross slopes (side to side) and very gentle running slopes, no steep sections, larger (greater than 60" x 60") level areas at all turns and intersections

• Thoughtfully laid out on the site to maximize the experience and minimize the difficulty

• Accessible amenities such as benches, restrnoms, port-a-johns, drinking fountains, etc.

• \\!ider width so two people can walk side by side or people can pass

• Edge treatment to prevent roll / step off

• If side rails are constructed, all lowered for easy viewing

• Interpretive information in a variety of alternative formats such as auditory, large print, Braille, pictures, etc.

Source: MDNR :~vlichigan Natural Resources Trust Fund 2009 .Application Guidelines

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VI. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Trailway Goals and Objectives

1. Rails-to-Trails Acquisition and Development for the Michigan Air-Line Railway Trail: Continue current efforts to acquire land and develop the trail.

2. Trail Development: Identify funding opportunities (e.g. MDNR, MDOT, etc.) and apply for grants for the development of the trail system.

3. Regional Connections: Support the connection to other regional trails and networks, such as but not limited to: West Bloomfield Trail, Huron Valley Trail, the M-5 Metro Trail and Lakes Community Trail.

4. Trail Management Plan: Develop and adopt a Trail Management plan, including maintenance and operation (rules and regulations) of the trail.

• Designate a full or part-time trail coordinator.

• Use prominent signage to warn users of potentially dangerous areas

• Regularly inspect the trail to correct any unsafe conditions

• Keep records of inspections and remedial changes

• Prominently post hours of operation and other rules and regulations, along with emergency contact information

• Develop procedures for handling medical emergencies

• Understand the state recreational use statue and other pertinent laws

5. Accessibility: Make the trail as accessible to as many users as possible.

6. Coordination: Facilitate coordination of trail development with plans of the local municipalities through which the trail passes.

7. Trail Design and Landscaping. Design the trail for safety. Enhance the appearance of the trail, trail heads, and adjacent corridors.

8. Adjacent Properties: Address the needs and concerns of adjacent property owners, residents and businesses.

• Conduct regular meetings and surveys to educate and get feedback from adjacent property owners

9. Friends of the Trail: Build support for trail development through the organization of a "Friends of the Trail" group.

• Address resident's recreational interests in cycling, walking, hiking, running, crosscountry skiing, and similar pursuits.

• Provide residents \Vi.th a safe means of non-motorized access to recreational, cultural, and educational facilities throughout the regional community.

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• Identify volunteers for clean-up days and special events.

• Gather support from local biking and runners groups .

10. Interpretive Signage: Developing an easily navigable and understandable connection between people and places is a complex process. Wayfinding is a key tool for making this connection. Wayside exhibits and signage are a means for visitors and residents to explore, lean about, and enjoy public and private spaces located along the trail corridor.

• Provide interpretive and wayfinding (e.g. route maps, mile markers, points of interest, etc.) signage

Environmental Sign adjacent to Trail Historic Marker along Trail

Trail Mile Marker

11. Trail Amenities: Provide trail amenities (e.g. restrooms, parking areas, respite areas, drinking water, signage, and picnic areas) to promote greater use, safety and enjoyment of the trail.

T railhead Parking Trail Amenities

Trail Art and Gazebo

12. Promotion. Prepare and update a brochure showing the trail, trail heads, parking, and adjacent amenities. A list of regional trails and organizations should also be included.

• Organize annual special events (e.g. clean up days, fun runs, etc.) to promote the trail.


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VII. ACTION PROGRAM

The Action Program is the part of the master plan where the Management Council identifies how they intend to meet, or work towards meeting their goals and objectives over the next five years.

Rails-to-Trails Acquisition and Development: "Michigan Air-Line Railway Trail" The main focus of the Master Plan is the acquisition; development and maintenance of the future Michigan Airline Trail (see Michigan Airline Trail map on page 8).

Acquisition - MNRTF Grant The CWL\V Trailway Management Council applied for and received a MNRTF acquisition grant from the MDNR for acquisition of the former Coe Railroad corridor (approximately 5.45 miles) in the August 2011 grant cycle. The assessment has been completed and MDNR set the market value at approximately $2.6 Million. If the owner accepts this amount the acquisition could be completed as soon as April of 2015.

Development Once the property has been acquired, the Management Council will need to consider what type of pathway it would like to develop. The costs below were derived from a variety of sources ("Trails for the 21st Century", Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, 2001; PEDSAFE Manual and Wade Trim) and are intended to illustrate probable costs for implementation:

T bl 6 E . a e : st1mate dC £ N ost or on-M otor1ze dT 'ID rat I eve opment Description Cost Per Mile Granular Stone (Limestone) $60-100,000 Asphalt $210-270,000 Concrete $300-500,000 Boardwalk $1,500,00-2,000,000 Resin Stabilized Varies based on application Wood Chips $65-85,000 Pre-Fabricated pedestrian bridge $70,000 each unit (15 ft. wide, 4 5 ft. long, steel truss)

Source: Oakland County (NII) Trails Master Plan 2008

A paved asphalt pathway is preferred to allow accessibility to the trail by the most users, including cyclists that use the trail for transportation; however, soft surface trails are often preferred by runners and naturalists. In some areas, depending on corridor constraints, it may be possible to have a parallel soft surface trail to a primary paved trail. Wetlands and a narrow railroad corridor along portions of the route may increase design and construction challenges, which could be mitigated by a stronger surface material. A significant grade separated pedestrian overpass would likely be necessary where the corridor crosses M-5. More detailed design and engineering is needed to determine specific costs for the proposed 5.45 miles of trail.

Longevity 7-10 Years 7-15 Years 20+ Years 7-15 Years 7-15 Years

Existing M-5 Railroad Crossing

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Trailheads and Gateways Prominent entrances to the trail are important for two reasons, 1) they build awareness of the trails location to residents, and 2) they help create safer crossing environment when the trail crosses roadways at grade. Entrances can be grouped into two categories, trailheads and gateways. Trailheads are locations that include the most amenities, like vehicle parking, bike parking, water fountains , restrooms, and trail map kiosks. Additionally, trailheads will be marked with prominent signs and wayfaring. A gateway has less amenities and generally would include a trail map kiosk, trail wayfinding and bike parking. The trail should have 4 to 5 prominent gateways and 1 to 2 trailheads. The most preferred locations identified during the planning process include.

• Welch Road (Commerce Township)

• Haggerty Road (Commerce Township) • Pontiac Trail (Walled Lake) - potential main trailhead

• Walled Lake Depot (Walled Lake)

• Wixom Road (\Wixom)

• Beck Road (Wixom)

Maintenance Typical annual maintenance costs for one-mile paved trail are listed in the following table:

T bl 7 An a e : nua IM. atntenance c osts per M'l f P 1 e o ave T ·1 rat Task Cost Drainage and storm channel maintenance $500 Sweeping/blowing debris off trail $1,200 Pick-up/removal of trash $1,200 Weed control and vegetation management $1,000 Mowing of grass shoulder $1,200 Minor repair to trail furniture/ safety features $500 Maintenance supplies for work crews $300 Equipment, fuel and repairs $600

Total estimated cost per mile: $6,500 Source: Oakland County (MI) Trails Master Plan 2008

Each community should adopt a uniform system for maintenance and operation of the trail segment that runs through their respective communities. Adopt-a-Trail programs may also be considered.

Supporting Community Projects:

Accessible pathways The trail design should provide additional accessible pathways links within each community to the future non-motorized Michigan Airline Trail. Pathway design should include trail gateways, interpretive signs, and entrances. Additionally, locations for trail parking, safety issues, and access for adjacent subdivisions should be considered during the trail design and implementation.

Non-Motorized Pathway Master Plan E ach community should prepare a non-motorized pathway master plan that identifies existing pathways, gaps, and future development of sidewalks, pathways, and bikeways throughout each community. Plans should provide design standards, sign guidelines, and estimated development

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20 :rvlichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway )\!faster Plan 2015-2020

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costs and identify possible funding sources.

Design Development Team A design and development team is recommended to be formed to guide the decision making process related to trail surface materials and the trail cross sections. Additionally, this team can lead the charge in community outreach, gateway and trailhead location selection, and trail branding and promotion. Branding includes selecting a memorable trail name for the trail. Some suggestions discussed during the planning process include: the Lakes Trail, the Lakes Area Trail, and the CW2 Trail.

The Missing Mile The Trail has a missing segment where it is currently proposed to be routed on street. This gap is illustrated in yellow on the map below. Efforts should be made to acquire access to eliminate this gap in the trail system.

Map 2: The Missing Mile

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom Trailway fanagement Council

21 Iviichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

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POTENTIAL FUNDING SOURCES

Funding for the proposed trail system is an ongoing endeavor, which requires continuous monitoring of programs, deadlines, application requirements, and matching sources. The following are potential funding sources for the trail, trail corridor, and trailway links.

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) The Land and \Xlater Consenration Fund are appropriated through the National Park Service who passes the funds through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The focus of this fund is the development of outdoor recreation facilities. For trails in particular, money can be used for community recreation, universal design, green technology, and coordination and communication projects. This is a 50/ 50 matching grant program, with a minimum grant request of $30,000, and a maximum request of $100,000. Grant deadline is April 1 each year.

MAP-21 (Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) MAP-21 is a new program to provide for a variety of alternative transportation projects, including many that were previously eligible activities under separately funded programs. The TAP replaces the funding from pre-MAP-21 programs including Transportation Enhancements, Recreational Trails, Safe Routes to School, and several other discretionary programs, wrapping them into a single funding source. The Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) offers funding opportunities to help expand transportation choices and enhance the transportation experience through implementing a number of transportation improvements, including pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure and safety programs, historic preservation and rehabilitation of transportation facilities, environmental mitigation activities, and safe routes to school programs.

SEMCOG awarded over $6 million in TAP funding in fiscal year 2014. Funds can be used for a wide variety of projects, including non-motorized improvements, green infrastructure, and projects encouraging students in grades K through 8 to walk or bike to school. Eligible applicants include incorporated cities and villages, county road commissions, and public transit agencies. Other organizations can apply, but they must be sponsored by one of the eligible applicants just described. A signed agreement between the sponsored and sponsoring agencies must be completed for the application to be considered.

MAP-21 (Recreation Trails Program) The Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) reauthorized the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) through Federal fiscal years 2013 and 2014 as a set-aside from the new Transportation Alternatives Program. The Recreational Trails Program (RTIJ) is a federal program that provides funds to each state to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. The RTP is part of the Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHW A) and is administered by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). Funds come from a portion of fuel taxes from non-highway vehicles, motorcycles, and snowmobiles. Federal transportation funds benefit recreation including hiking, bicycling, in-line skating, equestrian use, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, off-road motorcycling, all-terrain vehicle riding, four-wheel driving, or using other off-road motorized vehicles.

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The RTP funds are distributed to the States by legislative foirnula: half of the funds are distributed equally among all States, and half are distributed in proportion to the estimated amount of non-highway recreational fuel use in each State.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) The MNRTF provides funding for acquisition and development projects, as well as for the protection of 11.ichigan's natural resources. This is a matching grant program, with a minimum local match of 25%. There are two annual deadlines for grant application submission. For development and acquisition projects, applications must be received by April 1. For acquisition projects only, an additional grant cycle deadline is August 1 of each year. The minimum grant request for development projects is $15,000 and the maximum is $500,000.

There are thirteen evaluation criteria used for each grant application. The criteria includes: project and financial needs, protection of natural resources, wild-life related opportunities, to population served by the project.

Michigan Department of Transportation Act 51 Michigan's Act 51 program is funded primarily through gas.oline tax. It sets aside 1 % of the total revenue for the construction or improvement of non-motorized transportation services and facilities. Some eligible projects include the development of bicycle facilities, signage projects, planning and education, and the construction of sidewalks and shared-use paths.

Recreation Passport Grants In 2010, the State of Michigan introduced its Recreation Passport Program, which replaced the Motor Vehicle Permit program for entry into State parks. The passport is required for entry to state parks, recreation areas, and boating access sites. 10% of the revenue generated by the sale of the recreation passports is used to fund a local grant program. The grant program may only be used for local development projects. The program is focused on renovating and improving existing parks, but the development of new parks is eligible. The minimum grant request is $7 ,500, and the maximum grant request is $45,000, with a minimum 25% match.

Bikes Belong Coalition This grant program is administered through a coalition of bicycle retailers and suppliers throughout the United States. It is a nationwide program and has awarded more than $1.8 million dollars in grants. T'he goal of the Bikes Belong Coalition is to fund projects that increase the amount of bicycle facilities, and to "put more people on bikes more often". Grant applications are accepted four times a year, with a maximum request of $10,000. An average of twenty projects is funded annually. Grant information and applications are available at www.bikesbelong.org

DALMACFund The DALMAC Fund is administered by the Tri-County Bicycle Association. Founded by Dick Allen in 197 5, DALMAC provides funding for a variety of bicycle activities, including Bicycle Safety programs, education, and trail development. Grant requests are limited to $10,000, and applications are accepted from January 1 to March 15 each year.

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom Trailway _Management Council

23 rviichigan .A.ir-Line Railway Trailway l\faster Plan 2015-2020

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Additional Sources The following additional funding opportunities should also be considered.

• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds • Downtown Development Authority (DDA) • DTE Energy Tree Planting Program • Greenways Funds (Community Foundation of Southeastern Michigan) • MDEQ: Non-Point Source Pollution Control Grants-Clean MI Initiative and 319

Program • Michigan Trails and Greenway Alliance

• Millages • Private Funding/Donations • Tax Increment Revenues

Commerce, \\!ailed Lake, \\/ixom Trailway ~fanagement Council

24 }'vfichigan ~Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

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APPENDIX A

MICHIGAN AIR LINE TRAIL PO\V'ER POINT

Commerce, \\/alled Lake, Wixom Trailway Management Council

25 Michigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Ivfaster Plan 2015-2020

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Michigan Airline Trall • Connect the trails with trails or on-road routes to

create a 200+ mile cross-state router • Named in severat state trail documents as a

priority. • The time is now to connect • Development can happen later

An Important Piece of the Macomb/Oakland Trails Network

Commerce, \~alled Lake, Wixom Trailway Management Council


Januai-y 2015

And to the West ....

• MOOT is finishing up a restoration and improvement study for the 43 mile 1-275 Pathway. First phase of improvements to get started next year.

• MOO will also begin a easibility study next year

on extension of the 1-275 Pathway north along M· 5.

Ex"sfng Trails Along the Route ~

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom Trailway l\!Ianagement Council

27

Huron Valley Trail • A ink un r 1-96!

• State Own , ocally Mana ed by West OakJand Trailway Management Councl

• Links Sou h Lyon to VVixom with a connector to Island Lake and Ken ington

1\![ichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

Trail Along the Ml Airline Rout

llin ater Tr ii • I . ~ilc~ Paval

Trail Along he Ml Airline oute

· keland r ii


28 Michigan .Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

Trai s Along h Ml AirUne Route

I u r n lie ' ra ii • / Ii un r I· '

A irect Connec ion to t e West Bioomfield Trail

··e t Bloomfi Id Tr ii

• Lin · I lm1 n Ri\. r r tJ


29 Michigan Air-Line Railway Trailway :Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

Trails Along he Ml Airline Route

• L mil I n

rth nd I comb

hi n ofrh~

rail Along he Ml Airline oute

I comb Orch 1rd r ii


30 1!fichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

e Ml Airr e Route ri to R y r ii

A ui iti no thi egment th I Airline Rot te ...

• B ings h population

ro te o the hi es

• Maxi1niz s inv tm . ts air ad made b th atura1 Resour e ru t Fund

• Pr s rv a ' al h o natural r sou re s for a I toe do !

Commerce, \X'alled Lake, Wixom Trnilway Management Council


Januai-y 2015

o? ·he Ml Airline Route

l· Ha\i n rail ·Iii

rail Along the Ml Ai line Route

K lam

Commerce, Walled Lake, \Xlixom Trailway Management Council

32

tn un l I I !

Nlichigan .Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

Existing Trails Along the Ml Airline Route

t le :ree U

Commerce, \Xf ailed Lake, Wixom Trailway Management Council

r P r

33

• ru loop ithin the Im

Iviichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

APPENDIX B: Oakland County Non-Motorized Transportation Network, Linked Path & Trail System and Green Infrastructure.

Commerce, \Valled Lake, WL'<om Trailway Management Council


January 2015

Commerce, Walled Lake, \Xlixom Trailway Management Council

l\!lichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master.Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

rt.

l k

Commerce, Walled Lake, ·wixom Trailway Management Council

c:::J M I ldp I B

IV1ichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway }\faster Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

orni

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nal opp rtunl i s.

Comp one Green 1

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Michigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

Commerce, Walled Lake, \Xlixom Trailway Ivfanagement Council

Ivlichigan .Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015


-Michigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

APPENDIXC

Inter-Local Agreement

Commerce, \\!alled Lake, \X!ixom Trailway ~fanagement Council

Michigan .Air-Line Railway T.railway .Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

li':IUU.:lrr.'.l ~~ Kfll:YA. A.Ll . ..$l L~"E.fi ;. ·GQl,,ri

Lts~J .R~ U~$.MAYl;:B: GJ!m-;Jf!.Y 't. M1:ED •G; R("l$ RP~~

Mr. l Micb~1 bGman Mtil'iJ1;ger City <~f Wi>::om 4004.5 PomJ~ Tntil Wi:~omr Mic'trigar. 48393

Ii ADKISON,. NEED & ALI~EN

01:-em,~;':

·~M.Clf1.Jt~ f'Rfil"ES~.0...""i'ALLIMn"ID LIABLLffi'. Cf.».tfi'~

19533 W~rd~ Sllite l'W lillootrllitlid HiJJ~fMJcalpn 4fll04

T~t!phooe (2,48) 541)..;?fOO r~muie (MS') 540.-7401

w111P"Yii•ANAfirtrb~n fD)E C f ;, \I Efn)n.· lr\\ MAY I 8 2009 llJ}

EXECUTl'v'E. OFF,,CE . WJXOM, Mt 48393

Re~. Propased l:nter~ Agreement (Commtrc.~1 Walled :Lake, an.d Wixom Trailway Man.ageIDl!ltt·Conncil)

Dear Mr. Doman;

l am enclosin_g fot ymn con~ide.rrd:iQn and use the :pqq.KJ~.d lnt~rl~LAgreement between Gommef'cfh Walled l~ke. and Wixom establishing a Tr.ariiw:iiy Manage.me~n Cooncit This Agreefrient has ·been_ approvoo by the City of W titled Lake and ··the Chart.er T6wn&biP af Commerce Md ~ec.uted by thcir ~taU\'eS, 1f the C±ty of Wh:.om approvM this Ag~•t. please arrange to have it e-x.ocm:oo in the place provided and retum iuo my office for distriootkm lO all ~ie~ a:r~ for fUfatg w'.ith rue appropriate stat~ ·and cotmty age.ndes.

/jl Em: . . cc/enc: Tm•y Nm\.itld

Commerce, Walled Lake, \Xlixom T railway Management Council

ADKISON~ 'NEED & ALVEN, PL.L.C. ~;-

/ti /lf I PhillipO)df~ f~ I l ,. r

/ J l

.tvfichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway I\faster Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

INTERLOCAI~ AGREJ!;MENT

COMI\1ERC.Et WALLED LAKEt AND \\1XOM

I'RA.11.-WAY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

acquiring~ con:structm~ developing~ m~n~int;u opentin_g and mainbiinin;g· a tracilws:y i't!S defw~d

ln Ac\ 45L Barih of-the Parties js a 11g:ov~mmcnlal a:gency'', &s that term b defined m Act 45 1 ~

d~cribed hl Ar;t 7 mid .J\·DS 4$1 . The Council :Sihall coo8ist of'thr~ (3) voting memberS. Votmg

members of the ·Council wH be appob•ted by the :go·vemiug 'body of ca.Ch Pany . bl. acc-ordmwe

Commerce, \X/alled Lake, Wixom Trailway .i\fanagement Council

Michigan .A.ir-Line Railway Trailway I\faster Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

l.Pm'rliH:M A,r.tttnmtCf,1,•mm:i; 9''.titil hth.J riiR. w~ ·T'11k1 M111111pmm1 c~,.dJ·

Ptlgt2fl.{i

appomtro by U.e ie;gislative body ,of eaeh .Party as. foUow;S:

R; Within thlrty (30) da~ of the Effective Dilte of this Agree_ment, cibb Party shalJ

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom Trailway 1.fanagement Council

Michigan .Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

Janua1y 2015

lnkrl41Ct4 Agrf'~ml C(J;,;n;~e1 Wdedl11ke1

41ti .~ 'h¥1hwry /4P1~flfi. ColA~#l ~:lo/'1

re!it'>lution adopted ·by a majority ·Pf tbi:: Partiie£. Subject to theprovi~fons. of Pltt.lligraph 9~ in the

even~ of .rm:y sucn dis®lllitfon, ·lbe ·~y, a.s~etrnmd surplus mo11eysi ifany'.I iof the Council

·b. Th,e Cwnc;H shHIH .Pte~e illtld whmit io the govmins b6dies pflbe Parties an

rmnuid bLMl:g,el •for their apprnva~ before .adaptloo by the Cttuncil NCJ budge~ $ .ill be ~too

Commerce, \Valled Lake, Wixom Trailway :tvfanagement Council

I\1ichigan .A.ir-Line Railway Trailway I\faster Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

JJt.ticrl,(tC8/ Agr~.e.r;f Cn-mmm:~p W..tld~; imil W"'mll!I 'Ti'iflil-... M1111ii~m~nt C11vn~if ,P:Jal:e4of'!

Commerce, Walled Lake, \V'ixom Trailway J\!Ianagement Council

I\1ichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

Ink#~~ A~~t.C0Mmf'rt:t'., W~ttd l•b,. ilH W.rxitm rrJP.N~ llD.~~m Cttil.ndl p,,gdo/1

year ..

is appro,p:r:ialely inru:tod. for p;iblir;: liabilities whkb may aocrue ti;) the Par~ as :a ·resuh of the

Pa.rtyi!) partldpati,on in the <;rmmcU.

m with ~- :private endty to carry· oui ~ funcrtion!i of llhe Cr>un.eit The Co~il fllrth.er shaU have

power t-0 :r-elam IU:ld C{}ntract with S'tJl.::h outside profes~m:tal crJnEiU~timts and ~ervi~ providers ·. as

Council snaU rmt :bavt ~('.l!(Jyees.

12" Auditing and Ricoo:z'ds_ . 'Meetings of th>e C(}Um:,U ·shall be open w the poblkt •and the

442~ P~biic Ac:,ts of Mi.chlgan, 1976t ~ mn~d.ed. The Council shall cause .an .annual audit kdbe

made Of its fio.a.nc~al ~saetions. by a OCnifte.d public i!IDCQWtanl and mall fumidl i!l ·oopy tbetoof

Commerce, \\Tailed Lake, Wixom Trailway 11anagement Council

lvlichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway i\faster Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

i'1tgr/9ctzl,4,gti!i!iflt~~ C&O!tllti~\f., ~_,•i1.r-" JD~; ~ W'~ 'Tr'wlWiJt.;,;t MliM.pttA;eJJt Cou-ndl IJ~tit>f1

·t ii;, Effective Pam. This Agtecmet1l shall be effecti~~~ :a;,; 1'ifthc la~er of tbe "tfate offililJ.1

of :tin exc:e-uted copy of this Agreement with the Michigan Soo.r~tary l)fSitde Orear Seal Dh·1Mon~

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom Trailway 1fanagement Council

CHATtTER TO'\VNSHIP OF COJ!rt~RCE

CITY·OF ViIXOM

Iviichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway j\faster Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

f ,w7l,clll Aq,r•thl Co.mm~rtt• Wll111!4. J.Ate.1

ifti4· W~ Tni~1Ma~1attC~i1 ,,.~ 1~/1

Return .. evidmce of filing J9l Phillip 0, Ad.ki$on Adlriro~ N~ .&.Alloo 3953.3· Woc.~·ard? Suite 2l o Bloomfield Hals~ Michigan 48304

Commerce, Walled Lake, \\!ixom Trailway l\fanagement Council

Cl.TY OF W,ALLEJJ LAKE

&y: C1dberllie :Buc.k llS: Clerk

:Michigan .Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

APPENDIX D: Public Input Process

DNR Checklist Resolution Public Notices

• June 11, 2014 • November 25, 2014

• Janua0r 9,2015 Agendas

• June 11, 2014 • November 25, 2014

Minutes/Summary Results • November 25, 2014

Transmittal Letters

• MDNR • Oakland County • SEMCOG

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom I\Jichigan .Air-Line Railway Trailway ]\faster Plan Trailway Management Council 2015-2020

Michigan Department of Natur&I Resources-Grants Management

COMMUNITY PARK, RECREATION, OPEN SPACE, AND

GREENWAY PLAN CERTIFICATION CHECKLIST By Authority of Parts 19, 703 and 716 of Act 451, P.A. 1994, as amended, submission of this

information is required for eligibilfy to apply for grants

INSTRUCTIONS: Complete, obtain certification signatures and submit this checklist with a locally adopted recreation plan.

All recreation plans are required to meet the content and local approval standards listed in this checklist and as outlined in the Guidelines for the Development of Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Plans provided by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). To be eligible for grant consideration, plans must be submitted to the DNR prior to the grant application deadline with a completed checklist that has been signed by an authorized official(s) of the local unit of government(s) submitting the plan.

PLAN INFORMATION Name of Plan:

List the community names (including school districts) covered by County

Month and year plan adopted by the the plan community's governing b9dY

Charter Township of Commerce Oakland February 2015

City of Walled Lake Oakland February 2015

City of Wixom Oakland February 2015

- - -- - --

PLAN CONTENT

INSTRUCTIONS: Please check each box to certify that the listed information is included in the final plan.

~1. COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION

fL2. ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE

~Roles of Commission(s) or Advisory Board(s)

~Department, Authority and/or Staff Description and Organizational Chart

~nnual and Projected Budgets for Operations, Maintenance, Capital Improvements and Recreation ~Programming

~Current Funding Sources

mRole of Volunteers

'f£ Relationship(s) with School Districts, Other Public Agencies or Private Organizations

Regional Authorities or Trailway Comrnissions Only

iescription of the Relationship between the Authority or Commission and the Recreation Departments of articipating Communities

rticles of Incorporation

~3. RECREATION INVENTORY

fL Description of Methods Used to Conduct the Inventory

~Inventory of all Community Owned Parks and Recreation Facilities

~Location Maps (site development plans recommended but not required)

~Accessibility Assessment

~Status Report for all Grant-Assisted Parks and Recreation Facilities

~4. RESOURCE INVENTORY (OPTIONAL)

1L 5. DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING PROCESS

Page 1of2 PR1924-1 (Rev. 12/26/2012)

6. DEjCRIPTION OF THE PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS

~Description of the Method(s) Used to Solicit Public Input Before or During Preparation of the Plan, Including a Copy of the Survey or Meeting Agenda and a Summary of the Responses Received

.;t Copy of the Notice of the Availability of the Draft Plan for Public Review and Comment

Date of the Notice _J_an_u_a_ry_9_, 2_0_1_s ___________ _

Type of Notice _o_a_k_la_nd_ Pr_e_ss_, _P_nn_te_d _________ _

Plan Location Available for review at Commerce Township Hall

Duration of Draft Plan Public Review Period (Must be at Least 30 Days) _ 3_2_D_a_ys ________ _

~Copy of the Notice for the Public Meeting Held after the One Month Public Review Period and Before the Plan's Adoption by the Governing Body(ies) Date of Notice _ J_an_u_arx ___ 9_. 2_0_1_5 __________ _

NameofNewspaper ____ o=a=kl=an~d~P~r=es=s ___________ _

Date of Meeting _ F_eb_ru_a_ry_ 1_0_, _20_1_s __________ _

O Copy of the Minutes from the Public Meeting

~7. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

-'fL 8. ACTION PROGRAM

0 9. POST-COMPLETION SELF-INSPECTION REPORT NA - grantee not closed

PLAN ADOPTION DOCUMENTATION

Plans must be adopted by the highest level governing body (i.e., city council, county commission! township board). If planning is the responsibility of a Planning Commission, Park and Recreation Commission, Recreation Advisory Board or other local Board or Commission, the plan should also include a resolution from the Board or Commission recommending adoption of the plan by the governing body.

The local unit of government must submit the final plan to both the County and Regional Planning Agency for their information. Documentation that this was done must be submitted with the plan to the DNR.

Items 1, 3 and 4 below are required and must be included in the plan.

APPROVAL DOCUMENTATION: For multi-jurisdictional plans, each local unit of government must pass a resolution adopting the plan. Prepare and attach a separate page for each unit of government included in the plan.

ftl 1 . Official resolution of adoption by the governing body dated: __ Fe_b_ru_a_ry_1_0_, 2_0_1_s _______ _

0 2. Official resolution of the __________________ Commission or Board,

recommending adoption of the plan by the governing body, dated:

1fl 3. Copy of letter transmitting adopted plan to County Planning Agency dated: February, 10, 2015

f!/ 4. Copy of letter transmitting adopted plan to Regional Planning Agency dated: February 10, 2015

OVERALL CERTIFICATION

NOTE: For multi-jurisdictional plans, Overall Certification must include the signature of each local unit of government. Prepare and attach a separate signature page for each unit of government included in the plan.

I hereby certify that the recreation plan for

_c_o_m_m_e_ro_e_,w_~_~_d_L_~_e_,w_~_~_T_ra_i~_a_y_M_a_n_~_e_m_e_~_c_o_~_c_" ________ _ ~~~s~re~~doo~~~~~~d (Local Unit of Government)

above and as set forth by the DNR.

This completed checklist must be signed and submitted with a locally adopted recreation plan to:

GRANTS MANAGEMENT MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES PO BOX 30425 LANSING, Ml 48909-7925

( Au orized Official for the Lo I nit of Govemment Date

DNR USE ONLY - APPROVAL The recreation plan is approved by the DNR and the community (ies) covered by the plan, as listed on page 1 of this checklist is/are eligible to apply for recreation grants through

Date

By:

Grants Management Date

Page 2 of 2 PR1924-1(Rev.12/2612012)

MICHIGAN AIRLINE TRAIL MASTER PLAN 2015-2020 RESOLUTION OF ADOPTION

COMMERCE, WALLED LAKE AND WIXOM (CWLW) TRAILWAY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

WHEREAS, The Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom (CWLW) Trailway Management Council was approved by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources on June 12, 2009 and established on June 17, 2009; and,

WHEREAS, The CWL W Trailway Management Council developed a Five Year Trailway Master Plan for the 2009-2014 planning period and now is updating this plan for the years 2015-2020 to plan for the acquisition, construction, development, management, and maintenance of the former Coe railroad (approximately 5.45 miles) into the Michigan Airline Trail during the period between 2015-2020; and,

WHEREAS, a kickoff meeting and workshop was held with the Management Council on June 11, 2014 to discuss goals, procedures, existing conditions, trailway master plan, MNRTF Acquisition Grant, timeline and needs; and,

WHEREAS, a draft Trailway Master Plan was prepared for the MDNR required 30 day public review period and was available for public review at Commerce Township and the Cities of Walled Lake and City of Wixom during regular business hours; and,

WHEREAS, a public comment session was held on February 10, 2015 at Commerce Township, after 30-day public review, to provide an opportunity for citizens to express opinions, ask questions, and discuss an· aspects of the Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan; and,

WHEREAS, the CWL W Trail way Management Council has developed the Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan for the benefit of the entire community and to adopt the plan as a document to assist in meeting the recreation needs of the community; and, ·

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the CWLW Trailway Management Council, hereby adopts the Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan 2015-2020 as a guideline for the acquisition, development, and management of the proposed trail way for the community.

(Yeas: 2 Nays: Absent: I )

I, Kathleen Jackson Secretary, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and original copy of a resolution adopted by the CWL W Trailway Management Council at a special meeting the!eof held on the 10th day of February, 2015)

K hleeh Jackson, Seer' cJ,a <:;st-..._

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

COMMERCE, WALLED LAKE & WIXOM TRAILWAY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL

RAILS TO TRAILS PUBLIC MEETING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a Public Meeting of the Commerce, Walled Lake & Wixom Trailway Management Council will be held at 3:00 P.M. on June 11, 2014 at the Commerce Township Hall, located at 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Township MI 48390.

All interested persons attending the meeting will be given an opportunity to be heard. If you cannot attend this meeting, you may submit comments in writing to the C01mnerce, Walled Lake and Wixom Trailway Management Council c/o Commerce Township, 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Township, Ml 48390 ATTN: Township Clerk until 3:00 PM the day of the meeting.


NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING FOR THE 2014 MICHIGAN AIR-LINE RAILWAY TRAIL WAY MASTER PLAN

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the CWL W Trailway Management Council will hold a Focus Group Meeting at 3:00 P.M. on November 25 , 2014 at the Commerce Township Hall, located at 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Township, MI 48390 to hear and consider public comments regarding the 2014 update to the Michigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan. This meeting is open to the public. The plan was most recently updated in 2009 and public input is a critical component of the 2014 planning process.

All interested persons attending the focus group meeting will be given an opportunity to be heard with respect to these matters. If you cannot attend this meeting, you may submit cmmnents in writing to the Commerce, Walled Lake and Wixom Trailway Management Council c/o Commerce Township, 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Township, Ml 48390 ATTN; Township Clerk or email [email protected] until 3 :00 PM the day of the meeting.

Kathleen Jackson On behalf of the Commerce, Walled Lake and Wixom Trailway Management Council

Publication Date: November 14, 2014

McKA ll/13114


NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY OF THE DRAFT 2015 MICIDGAN AIR-LINE RAILWAY TRAILWAY MASTER PLAN FOR PUBLIC REVIEW AND COMMENT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to the Guidelines for the Development of Community Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Greenway Plans, Michigan Department of Natural Resources Grants Management, the draft 2015 Commerce, Walled Lake & Wixom (CWLW) Trail way Master Plan will be available for public review starting January 9, 2015.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the CWLW Trailway Management Council will hold a Public Hearing at 1 :00 P.M. on February 10, 2015 at the Commerce Township Hall, located at 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Township, MI 48390, to hear and consider public comments on the proposed 2015 Michigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan. This Public Hearing is being held after the expiration of the minimum 30 day review period for comments from citizens.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that a draft narrative of the proposed Michigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan, with accompanying maps, charts, and descriptive material, may be examined at the following location: Commerce Township Hall, located at 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Township, MI 48390, during regular office hours until the date of the Public Hearing.

All interested persons attending the hearing/workshop will be given an opportunity to be heard with respect to these matters. If you cannot attend this meeting, you may submit comments in writing to the Commerce, Walled Lake and Wixom Trailway Management Council c/o Commerce Township, 2009 Township Drive, Commerce Township, MI 48390 ATTN: Township Clerk or email [email protected] until 12:00 PM the day of the meeting.

~AC)A°'-On behalf of the Commerce, Walled Lake and Wixom Trail way Management Council

Publication Date: January 9, 2015

McKA 01/05115

M~K<rnna COMMUNITY LA NI AND DE IG

Commerce, Walled Lake, Wixom - Five Year Recreation Master Plan Update

Trailway Management Council Meeting- June 11, 2014

Discussion Items

1. Schedule Update/Process a. Meetings b. Client lead & responsibilities c. Oakland County GIS

2. Goals discussion:

a. Plan that meets State requirements

b. Plan that can be used for project funding

c. What are your goals for the project?

d. What will make the project a success?

3. Focus Groups Guly) a. Key issues/topics b. Who should be invited? c. Where will they be held?

4. Next steps a. Coordinate mapping with

Oakland County GIS b. Coordinate Focus Groups

Notes:

WWW. CKA.COM 888.226.4326

HEADQUARTERS 235 East Main Street, Suite 105, Nortlwrlle, Ml 48167 T:248.596.0920 F:248.596.0930 WEST MICHIGAN 151 South Rose Street. Suite 920, Kalamazoo. Ml 49007 T:269.382.4443 F:248.596.0930 OHIO 1382 West 9th Street. Suite 420. Cleveland, Ohio 44113 T:330.528.3342 F:248.596.0930

M<;KC:!lU~ COMMU ITV PLANNIN ND DE I

w

CWLW MICHIGAN AIR-LINE RAILWAY TRAIL I 2014 MASTER PLAN UPDATE

Focus Group Meeting Agenda: November 25, 2014

Discussion Items

1. Introductions

2. Goals discussion:

a. Ranking exercise

b. Comments

3. Project List

a. Ranking exercise

b. Comments

4. Name That Trail

a. Brainstorm ideas for trail name

5. Gateways and Access Points

a. Which roads should be used for primary trail access?

Notes:

• C A.CO 888.226.4326

HEADQUARTERS 235 East Main St eet Suite 105, No thville. Ml 48167 T:248.596.0920 F:248.596.0930 WEST MICHIGAN 151 SoutJ1 Rose Street, Suite 920. Kalamazoo, Ml 49007 T:269.382.4443 F:248.596.0930 OH 10 1382 West 9th Street Suite 420. Cleveland. Ohio 44113 T: 330.528.3342 F: 248.596.0930

CWLW: Michigan Airline Railway Trail Master Plan - Goal Ranking, Results 11/25/2014

#1. Rails-to-Trails Acquisition and Development: ''Michigan Air-Line Railway Trail" 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 1 1 1 1 1.11 #2. Trail Development: Identify funding opportunities (e.g. MDNR, MDOT, etc.) and apply

for grants for the development of the trai I system. 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 3 1 2 1 1 1.28

#5. Regional Connections: Support the connection to other regional trails and networks,

such as but not limited to: West Bloomfield Trail, Huron Valley Trail, and Lakes 3 1 4 1 2 3 2 5 3 1 1 2 1 1 4 1 1 2 2.06 #11. Trail Management Plan: Develop and adopt a Trail Management plan, including

maintenance and operation (rules and regulations) of the trail. 4 1 2 2 4 3 3 2 3 2 3 4 1 3 2 1 2 1 2 2.28

#6. Accessibility: Make the trail as accessible to as many users as possible. 5 1 3 1 3 1 2 2 2 3 1 1 4 5 3 3 2 4 2.41

#3. Coordination: Facilitate coordination of trail development with plans of the local

municipalities through which the trail passes. 6 4 1 4 2 2 3 3 2 2 1 2 2 3 2 1 3 3 5 2.50

#9. Trail Design and landscaping. Design the trail for safety. Enhance the appearance of

the trail, trail heads, and adjacent corridors. 7 1 4 2 2 1 3 1 2 2 1 3 2 5 1 4 5 4 3 2.56

#12. Adjacent Properties: Address the needs and concerns of adjacent property owners,

residents and businesses. 8 5 3 1 3 4 4 4 5 4 2 1 2 5 1 2 2 4 1 2.94

#4. Friends ofthe Trail : Build support for trail development through the organization of

a "Friends of the Trail" group, with events and a website. 9 1 2 4 4 2 4 4 2 5 3 3 5 4 1 2 5 1 3.06

#8. Interpretive Signage: Developing an easily navigable and understandable connection

between people and places is a complex process. 10 2 4 4 5 2 3 4 4 3 4 2 3 2 2 4 4 5 3.17 #7. Trail Amenities: Provide trail amenities (e.g. restrooms, parking areas, respite areas,

drinking water, signage, and picnic areas) to promote greater use, safety and enjoyment 11 2 4 3 5 2 3 4 3 2 3 2 4 4 2 3 4 5 4 3.28 #10. Promotion. Prepare and update a brochure showing the trail, trail heads, parking,

and adjacent amenities. A list of regional trails and organizations should also be

included. 12 5 4 4 5 3 3 2 4 4 3 2 3 5 5 5 5 4 3.88

Comments: Comments (continued): Team to determine appropriate surface will be important Trail & Rd Crossings - Ped lslands/ HAWK/ RRFB

Adopting a mile or sponsorship opportunities Urban Pavement Confidence Markers

MDOT is funding bridge over MS - 2017 Maintain the trail so it is at least walkable/ bikeable until it is paved or gravel

Complete Mileage system/ whole trail Redevelop previous railway depot in walled lake as a trailhead/HQ/depot/ retail

Missing Mile through Wixom/include in master plan Coordinate with Commerce Twp., Walled Lake, Wixom P&R departments for connections, maintenance, and master planning

Determination of the trail surface (crushed limestone), too many maintenance issues with pavement Adopt a mile sponsorship

Bridge over M-5 I don't want to see access for equestrians or motorcycles

Traffic Calming on cross streets Get the basics done then over time add things

Trail name & logo; Connections with downtowns/ wayfinding

Prepared by McKENNA Associates: December 23, 2015 NI~J(t:£!Qfl

CWLW: Michigan Airline Railway Trail Master Plan - Project Ranking, Results 11/25/2014

#1. Complete Rails-to-Trails Acquisition for the Michigan Air-Line Railway Trail 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1.00

#2. Development, Design and Construction/: Once the property has been acquired,

the Management Council will need to consider what type of pathway it would like to

develop and secure funding to construct the trail. 2 1 1 1 3 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1.67 # 4 Accessible Pathways: Provide additional accessible pathways links within each

community to the future non-motorized Ml Air-Line Railway Trail. Including trail

gateways, interpretive signing, and entrances. 3 3 3 1 2 4 3 2 1 4 4 2 5 4 4 4 5 2 1 3.00

#3. Maintenance: Typical annual maintenance costs for one-mile paved trail are

listed in the following table are estimated at $6,500 per mile. 4 5 3 3 5 5 3 2 2 5 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 1 3.11

#5 Non-Motorized Pathway Master Plans: Prepare a non-motorized pathway master

plan for each community identifying existing pathways, gaps, and future

development of sidewalks, pathways, and bike lanes throughout each community 5 2 4 4 4 3 3 1 2 4 5 1 4 1 5 5 5 3 1 3.17

Comments: Comments (continued):

There are many more drawbacks to paving the trail Parking spaces, Parking on Wixom by credit union

Parking lots Trailheads (4-5)

Use of groundcover to reduce maintenance cost of trail ROW M-5 Bridge MOOT

Plan for Walled Lake depot & other historic resources Parts of the trail are very close to subdivisions

Define Destination Places on the maps

Prepared by McKENNA Associates: December 23, 2015 Mc;I<~~UQ~

CWLW Michigan Airline Railway Master Plan: Gateways and Access Points, Results 11/25/2014

Welch Road Area/M-5 - 2

Welch Road - 4

Haggerty Road - 3

Benstien Road - 2

Pontiac Trail & 15 Mile

Decker

West Maple

M-5

Pontiac Trail - 6

The old train station at Pontiac trail and Maple

Walled Lake Depot

S Commerce/Pontiac Trail

Pontiac Trail (as main trailhead)

M-5 Path

LADD

CWLW Michigan Airline Railway Master Plan: Trail Name Ideas, Results 11/25/2014

CW2 Trail

Lakes Area Trail

Lakes Trail

.ii . 1

Prepared by McKEN NA Associates: December 23, 2015

Wixom Rd -10

Beck Road - 3

Old Plank Road

Downtown

In the City of Wixom

Wixom Road at Pontiac Trail

Beck (WL Western for parking)

The park at Beck

M<;KC:sUQ~

Name

Brian Winkler Mike Esken Michael Reuter Bruce Simrod Justin Schumacher Michael Fisher Allison Fis her Gerard Fertig Larry Johnson Kristen Wiltfong Fred Dore John Owsiner Thomas Zoner Jon Heft Jean Korleski David Rosevear

CWLC Trailway Management Council- Sign-In Sheet November 25, 2014

Address Email

1845 Dorchester Commerce Twp [email protected]

3411 Glenview Ct [email protected]

2961 Remington Oakland [email protected]

2295 ChiefLane [email protected]

2139 Tyler Ave Berkley justi nschu macher@wlesd .org

8349 Woodspur Dr Commerce [email protected]

8349 Woodspur Dr Commerce 2750 Duffers Lane Commerce [email protected]

3129 Interlake West Bloomfield [email protected]

2100 Pontiac Lake Rd Waterford 48328 [email protected]

2173 Pleasant Dr Commerce 48390 [email protected]

1499 E West Maple Walled Lake 48390 [email protected]

2355 E Commerce Rd [email protected]

3253 Johanna Ware Wixom [email protected]

2684 Warrior Wixom [email protected]

1840 Ayrshire Dr Commerce Twp 48390 [email protected]

February 27, 2015

Ms. Kathleen Lomako, Executive Director SEMCOG Southeast Michigan Council of Governments 1001 Woodward A venue, Suite 1400 Detroit, MI 48226-1904

Subject: Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan 2015-2020, Commerce, Walled Lake and Wixom (CWLW) Trailway Management Council

Dear Ms. Lomako

On behalf of the CWLW Trailway Management Council, I am pleased to submit one copy of the Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan 2015-2020 that was adopted on February 10, 2015.

This plan was made available to the public starting on January 9, 2015 and concluding at the Public Hearing, held on February I 0, 2015.

The CWLW Trailway Management Council prepared this document with the assistance of McKenna Associates, Inc. Please include this document with your files for future reference. Please also copy the MDNR grants section on any comments received by your agency.

We would like to thank you for the assistance provided by Kristen W iltfang. Should you have any questions or require additional information, do not hesitate to contact us.

Respectfully submitted,

~fluJLJ~ Secretary, CWLW l!ailw: ~anagement Council

Encls.

February 27, 2015

Mr. Matt Gibb, Deputy Director of Economic Development Community Affairs Oakland County Economic Development & Community Affairs 2100 Pontiac Lake Road, Building 41 W Waterford, MI 48328

Subject: Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan 2015-2020, Commerce, Walled Lake and Wixom (CWLW) Trailway Management Council

Dear Mr. Gibb:

On behalf of the CWLW Trailway Management Council, I am pleased to submit one copy of the Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan 2015-2020 that was adopted on February 10, 2015.

This plan was made available to the public starting on January 9, 2015 and concluding at the Public Hearing, held on February 10, 2015.

The CWL W Trail way Management Council prepared this docwnent with the assistance of McKenna Associates, Inc. Please include this document with your files for future reference. Please also copy the MDNR grants section on any comments received by your agency.

We would like to thank you for the assistance provided by Kristen Wiltfang. Should you have any questions or require additional information, do not hesitate to contact us.


~ <'la. via o-i-. J:::Cn Jackson (/ Secretary, CWLW Trailway Management Council

Encls.

February 27,2015

Ms. Amy Matison: Grants Coordinator Grants Management, Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) 530 W. Allegan Street Lansing, MI 48933

RE: Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan 2009-2014, Commerce, Walled Lake and Wixom (CWLW) Trailway Management Council

Dear Ms. Matisoff,

On behalf of the CWLW Trail way Management Council, I am happy to submit one copy of the Michigan Airline Trail Master Plan 2015-2020, which was adopted on February 10, 2015.

A copy has also been forwarded to Oakland County and SEMCOG.

In the meantime, should you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact myself at 248-960-7050 or Paul Lippens, AICP, McKenna Associates at 248-596-0920.


~nF~ Secretary, CWLW Trailway Management Council

Encls.

January 2015

NOTES:


Nlichigan Air-Line Railway Trailway :Master Plan 2015-2020

January 2015

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

MCKENNA ASSOCIATES Community Planning- Urban Design - Landscape Architecture

235 East Main Street, Suite 105 Northville, Michigan 4816 7 Telephone: 248-596-0920

Fax: 248-596-0930 Website: www.mcka.com

Phillip C. McKenna, PCP, AICP ............................................................................ President Amy Neary, AICP, Senior Principal Planner ............................................ Project Director Paul Lippens, AICP, Principal Planner ................................... Project Manager

Commerce, Walled Lake, \Wixom Trailway lfanagement Council

Aaron, Casey, and Terry Croad on the Trail

:Michigan Air-Line Railway Trailway Master Plan 2015-2020

michigan airline trail master plan 2015-2020 · michigan airline trail master plan 2015-2020...

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