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March 3, 2006
Park plans: Just the startBeach upgrade part of wider recreation planGREILICKVILLE - Plans to upgrade Elmwood Township's beachfront park on M-22 could be the first step in linking recreation sites, including a potential nature preserve along Cedar Lake.Members of the parks and recreation committee this week approved an updated draft of the township's recreation plan that includes a layout for proposed upgrades to the park that adjoins the township marina. Park improvements could include a pavilion, boardwalk, play area, restrooms and enhanced parking and pedestrian access from M-22. The five-year recreation plan also encompasses goals to better connect attractions like Cherry Bend Community Park, the Leelanau Trail and the DeYoung farm property that the Leelanau Conservancy aims to preserve as a natural area. Klaus Heinert, a landscape architect from Gosling Czubak Engineering who helped complete the recreation plan, called it a document that officials can revisit to measure progress. "Hopefully, you'll be checking off things," he said. Leelanau Conservancy land protection specialist Matt Heiman said the nonprofit is working with Elmwood Township to integrate the 145-acre DeYoung property into both organizations' long-term plans. The conservancy signed an option in December to purchase the historic farmstead. "The township was an obvious partner," he said. The DeYoung property stretches across Cherry Bend Road and includes nearly a mile of undeveloped shoreline on the northwest edge of Cedar Lake. The Leelanau Trail runs through the parcel, and the conservancy plans to make the land open to the public for hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing and wildlife observation. Heiman said a partnership with the township is still in the planning stage, but could include applying to the state Department of Natural Resources for a grant to help acquire the property. The conservancy would provide local matching funds. The township also is working with groups including the Maritime Heritage Alliance and the Great Lakes Children's Museum, both of which are involved in projects along M-22. The committee's approval opened a 30-day public comment period before it goes to the township board March 28 for adoption. The township needs the recreation plan, last updated in 1998, to apply for state grants to help fund upgrades. See related story:
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