Construction of Elevated Boardwalk to Begin at Pelizzari Natural Area

This week, Peninsula Township will begin construction on an elevated boardwalk in the popular hemlock wing of Pelizzari Natural Area. The projected is expected to be completed by the beginning of June.

If you’ve hiked the trail at Pelizzari Natural Area, you know how beautiful it is, especially the old-growth hemlocks located at the southeast corner of the park. A few years ago, the Township began a fundraising campaign to construct an elevated boardwalk on this part of the trail, known as the Dr. John Spencer Trail.

Hemlocks have a shallow root structure in soft, moist soils, and the popularity of the nearly seven-acre Hemlock Wing means the trees and understory have been negatively impacted. Staff members at the Township’s partner organization, the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, cautioned that an elevated boardwalk was needed to protect the hemlocks.

During construction, there will be a trail disruption with barriers placed for the protection of hikers. If you’re hiking during this time, be aware of the precautions and barriers. The park will also be closed for one day during construction for the primary delivery of boardwalk materials. Check the Township’s website for the precise date of closure, as well as other updates.

The preservation campaign began nearly three years ago when it became clear that the hemlocks were literally being “loved to death” with so much foot traffic that sensitive roots were being damaged. The Township applied a portion of its ARPA funds and secured significant grants from the Huckle Family Foundation, the Thomas Family Foundation, the Tim and Libby Ash Foundation, the Oleson Foundation, the Biederman Family Foundation, the Traverse City Track Club, and the Schmuckal Family Foundation. The balance of funding was provided by generous donations from hundreds of individuals.

Peninsula Township also thanks the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy for its partnership in preserving Pelizzari Natural Area and ongoing support in the park’s management.

Stay tuned to the Gazette for the date of a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the new boardwalk.

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