The Little Traverse Conservancy has designated the scenic preservation of the US 31 Corridor as a top priority for protection in the year 2000 and beyond. The rapid development of the corridor between Petoskey and Charlevoix cannot escape notice by anyone who lives or visits northern Michigan. The Conservancy s goal is to balance the growth along this corridor with the scenic character of the area. The Conservancy has applied to the Michigan Department of Transportation for funds to protect scenic properties along the US 31 highway. We aim with the blessing of local residents to preserve some of the undeveloped areas that remain.
Preservation means something different when considering the protection of scenic views.
Since the focus is on the viewshed, a landowner can often continue with residential or commercial development of the property while placing a greenbelt along the highway. The scenic beauty is protected, but the property can still be utilized. The Conservancy has successfully worked to protect the scenic corridor between Petoskey and Harbor Springs, and also along M-119 s Tunnel of Trees . It has long been recognized that the visual separation of communities is vitally important to maintaining the character of towns, observed the Conservancy s Associate Director, Tom Lagerstrom. Maintaining the scenic beauty between Charlevoix and Petoskey will add to the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.