This map details a proposed bicycle path that would also function as a mountain bike trail in certain areas. Ideally, the trailhead committee would like to see more of the trail paved. (Image provided by the Mackinaw City Trailhead Committee) Deciding to create a bicycle trail through Mackinaw City is a philosophical decision, Planning Commission Chair Rob Most told the Mackinaw City Village Council. If council members wish to draw friendly, family-oriented people in the future, a bike trail will fit that goal, he said.

Sandy Planisek, Rosada Mann, and Bo Whipkey of the trailhead committee presented their bicycle trail plans to the council during a meeting at the Mackinaw City Village Hall Thursday, October 29. Mrs. Planisek explained the trails can make Mackinaw City a more attractive destination, as people would be able to ride along the paths and explore the village at their leisure. While the same can be accomplished with a car, people are more likely to jump into their car and drive away, rather than explore as they would on a bicycle. Other benefits offered include relieving street congestion and reducing parking demand.

This trail map shows an example of what the Mackinaw City Trailhead Committee would like to see developed around the village. Bicycle rack locations were also included in the plans. (Image provided by the Mackinaw City Trailhead Committee) The plan indicated a proposed route that would take cyclists around town from the trail head behind Central Avenue, down to the state dock, along the lake front near Arnold and Shepler's boat lines, past Fort Michilimackinac, and back to the trail head. Potential areas for bicycle racks were also included on the plan. In the beginning, some paths would be paved, while others would not.

A proposed cross-town loop trail was discussed, as well. The basic outline includes paved, unpaved, and mountain bike paths that extend from the trail head due west toward the Mackinaw City Historic Village. From the village, the trail travels north to Central Avenue and south toward French Farm Lake, Mrs. Planisek said. The path would then run toward Wind Turbine Park and the trail head. Mrs. Planisek stressed the cross-town loop is a proposal, and easements and land swaps with residents would be needed to create the trail.

Bike stations could be built around bicycle racks as the trail project continues, the trailhead committee explained. Signs could be placed at each seating area detailing the route, as well. Stylized bicycle racks could be used, the committee said, including some racks that look like bicycles.

A problem area identified in the plan was along North Huron Avenue. Sharrow marks, symbols that indicate a particular lane can be occupied by bikes, would be placed along North Huron but would not be "family friendly," according to the plan. Mrs. Planisek explained North Huron is not striped, and often times cars drive all over the street.

Another issue identified was near the fort. The path is smooth, but ends near a road. If the cyclist continued across the street in the same direction, he would have to take a sharp turn to get to the next path or ride into the nearby grass. The issue would need to be addressed in the future.

The committee included a list of improvements for the downtown trail loop along with a very rough breakdown of prices. In 2010, the committee wants to install eight bicycle racks around town at an estimated cost of $1,000 per rack. Other work included a set of 20 to 30 trail signs costing roughly $5,000, curb improvements for several areas the trail would pass through estimated between $1,000 to $3,000, and grading and gravel work around the west side of Louvigny and south end of Louvigny to the trail, for roughly $3,000 to $5,000.

The plan will be considered at a future council meeting. No action was taken during the October 29 meeting.