The Regional Planning Department offers tools and technical assistance to local units of government to support land use decision-making in northwest lower Michigan.

 

Grand Traverse Area Land Use and Transportation Study Group  The Land Use and Transportation Coordinating Group was officially appointed by the Grand Traverse County Board in April of 2005. The group's mission, established at its August meeting, defines its purpose:"Our mission is to use a transparent and citizen led discussion and process to ensure the development of a community vision, plans for the future, and projects that address land use and transportation challenges facing the region."Staff assist this community collaborative by coordinating and staffing meetings and subcommittees and providing technical assistance. Information about this process has been redirected to The Grand Vision.

 

Finding Common Ground  Natural features such as rivers, lakes, groundwater, do not stop at political boundaries. Neither to road or rail corridors, trails, or the night sky. Finding Common Ground is an ongoing effort to assist local governments to coordinate efforts beyond jurisdictional boundaries.

 

Heritage Routes  Heritage routes are transportation corridors with a strong sense of place, whether scenic, historic, or recreational. Staff assist local communities in designating Heritage Routes and implementing local projects that protect, preserve, and promote the sense of place that makes the corridor unique.