SPRING LAKE TWP. — Spring Lake Township's Board of Trustees has approved the construction of new bike paths, funded by a voter-approved millage. The project carries an estimated total cost of $3.8 million for construction.

The expansion comes as West Michigan summers typically see a surge in visitors. The first phase of construction for the non-motorized paths, intended for bicycles only, is expected to begin this summer and continue into the fall of 2025.

Local residents have largely expressed enthusiasm for the project. 

"It's great for the summer," said Nathan Marckini, a Spring Lake resident. 

The township has reportedly held several community engagement events regarding the paths.

Here’s a breakdown of the phased project: 

• Phase one of the project will focus on 174th Avenue, extending approximately 1,300 feet north, from Van Wagoner on the east side of the road. It will also include State Road from 148th Avenue to 144th Avenue.
• Phase two is slated to begin in spring 2026, encompassing Hickory Street from 148th Avenue to Fruitport Road, and Rannes Street from Leonard Street to 152nd Avenue.
• Details for phase three are still in development, with no timetable for its start. 

While many are optimistic, some residents remain skeptical.

"These things always end up taking longer than they are intended to, and I'm not sure how effective the paths will be for bikers," said Brady Brown, an Ottawa County resident.

The township has emphasized its commitment to keeping residents informed about future projects.

The board’s approval follows the recent completion of the 24-mile Grand Crossings Loop, which fully encircles the Grand River. According to WOOD TV, the loop's expansion was made possible by improvements to the Green Street bridge over Stearns Bayou.

An Ottawa County Parks and Recreation Commission representative said that the bridge improvements "enhance safety and include two bump-outs for fishing and wildlife viewing." 

The entire trail system now spans 60 miles, aiming to enhance residents' experience with nature and wildlife in Ottawa County.

The Grand Crossings Loop has quickly gained popularity among residents. 

"I really appreciate the new section on Green Street that keeps everyone safer from the traffic crossing the bridge there,” said Gerry Verwey, of Ferrysburg.

Spring Lake residents hope the new project will be as successful as the Bayou segment in Robinson Township.

The renewal of an existing millage to fund bicycle path maintenance through 2033 suggests an ongoing commitment to the network. As summer tourism increases, the economic importance of these paths to the township is expected to grow.

Idema Trail expands

Meanwhile, a major milestone in West Michigan’s trail network has been achieved with the completion of the Bayou Segment of the Idema Explorers Trail in Robinson Township. 

The six-mile Bayou Segment links over 1,000 acres of parkland and completes the western third of the Idema Explorers Trail, creating the longest continuous stretch of the trail to date. Improvements include: 

• 2.4 miles of newly constructed trail through Robinson Township
• The recently expanded and dedicated Lydia Secory Verplank Memorial Bridge — a 14-foot-wide, multi-use pedestrian bridge spanning Stearns Bayou, featuring two scenic overlooks
• New wayfinding signage in Grand Haven to support navigation and connectivity

The project was made possible through a combination of federal, county and philanthropic support:

• The federal Transportation Alternatives Program administered through MDOT: $3.43 million 
• Ottawa County ARPA: $2 million
• Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund: $300,000
• Ottawa County Parks Foundation: $182,458