Meet a Norte Community Partner: TART Trails
If you ride, walk, or roll in northern Michigan, the odds are good that you’ve benefitted from the work of TART Trails. Founded in 1998, TART Trails have been the catalyst for the creation, solidification, and/or enhancement of the Vasa Pathway, TART, Boardman Lake Trail, and the Leelanau Trail.
Few organizations have done more to increase access to alternative transportation and recreation in our region than the TART crew. Take a minute to learn more about TART courtesy of Kate Lewis, TART’s Director of Communications.
Thank you, TART crew, for everything you do to promote mobility, community, and healthy activities in northern Michigan!
What is TART Trail's mission and vision for the future of our region?
Our mission is to provide and promote a trail network that enriches people and communities throughout the greater Traverse region. Our vision for the future is to see happy, active people making connections through a world-class trail network. The entire region will be connected by trails, bikeways, and pedestrian-friendly streets, linking people to the beauty of the Traverse area year-round.
Which projects are getting the most traction in 2024/2025?
TART Bayfront Improvement & Extension Project
Deepwater Connector | Nakwema Trailway
Pathway to Good Harbor | Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
Three Mile Trail Extension
…just to name a few. (Here are a few more!)
Who provides funding to TART?
TART Trails is funded through the generosity of over 1,900 donors who are dedicated to happy, healthy communities. We coordinate closely with public, private, corporate, and nonprofit partners to make sure every dollar we receive is leveraged to its fullest potential.
Is TART a public or private nonprofit? What's the difference?
We are a public charity. Both public charities and private foundations can be designated as 501c3 organizations. A private 501c3 is generally something like a family foundation that is controlled by an individual or family. A public nonprofit charity receives donations from the general public and/or government agencies, and interacts more with the public, and is governed by a more diverse (ie. not all family) board.
How can I get involved with TART's work?
We are so glad you asked! We have lots of different ways to get involved with our work.
· Attend an event – we host our own events, and appear at partner events, in all four seasons. Join us!
· Sign up to volunteer – we have an active network of over 400 volunteers! There’s something for everyone.
· Use the trails – seriously, this is the whole point.
How do Norte and TART collaborate?
Norte and TART collaborate closely on various initiatives, including Smart Commute Week, where we join forces to inspire community members to embrace alternative modes of transportation such as walking, cycling, and public transit year-round. Our collaboration extends beyond this initiative, as we share resources and volunteers, exemplifying our commitment to promoting non-motorized transportation options for all. Our partnership extends to larger projects such as the collaboration between the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, East Bay Township, Norte, and TART, which aims to connect the Three Mile Trail with the cluster of school campuses south of Hammond Road, facilitating safer and more accessible routes for students, residents, and visitors alike.
Where can I learn more about the trail network?
You can learn more about the trail network by checking out our website (https://traversetrails.org/), following us on social media, or by just getting out and using the trails. There are wayfinding signs and maps along the entire network to support your travels.
How can I stay up to date on trail news?
Make sure to stay connected with us on social media! Follow @tarttrails for updates and don't forget to sign up for our bi-weekly e-newsletter. It's packed with insightful content about the amazing people, places, and projects that drive the heart of our mission and work.
