To accommodate growing demand from boaters, residents, and tourists, and modernize amenities, Elmwood Township, MI, completed three phases of land-based improvements at their marina. As one of the largest public marinas on West Grand Traverse Bay, Elmwood Marina received matching financial support for renovations from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Waterways Grant-in-Aid Program. In addition, funds from the Great Lakes Fishery Commission were used to add the Traverse City area’s only dedicated public fish cleaning station with a grinder. Over the past 8 years, Wade Trim has provided grant administration assistance and engineering design and construction services for the improvements. We continue to assist the Township with engineering consulting and future planning.

Initial project phases benefitted day use boaters who park their vehicles and launch watercraft into the bay. The marina parking lot was reconfigured to improve circulation, ease congestion, and increase the size of parking spaces. A new Harbormaster Building was added with office space, a garage, two public restrooms, and the marina’s front desk and convenience store. Additional improvements include the fish cleaning station and water, sewer, and electrical utility upgrades. Pedestrian amenities include ADA compliant ramps and walkways, site lighting, benches, and landscaping.

The final phase focused on improving the experience of marina slip holders by adding community gathering spaces, indoor and outdoor lounge areas, cooking areas, a new creek-side seawall, and improved parking. The highlight is a new, 3,200-square-foot boater’s facility building and covered pavilion centered within the site. The building, which was designed in coordination with an architect and named “Captain’s Lounge,” features a multipurpose room, private showers, internet service, and laundry facilities.

Local contractors that helped bring these improvements from plans to reality include Team Elmer’s, RCI, and Walton Contracting.