Since its opening in 2007, the North Central State Trail has allowed for scenic travels up Michigan’s northern lower peninsula. After the Michigan Department of Transportation supplied a $1.48 million federal Transportation Enhancement grant in 2006, and more than 40 local clubs, businesses, organizations and units of government offered match dollars, Team Elmer’s signed on to the task of resurfacing the trail with compacted crushed limestone.

Limestone is ideal for snowmobiling because it works as an insulator, keeping packed snow on the 10-foot-wide trail from melting. During the warmer months, the flat terrain allows for easy bicycling through Michigan’s diverse and beautiful countryside.

The project was completed in seven segments, and only two were closed to usage at a time during the resurfacing process. More than 100,000 tons of gravel were used, and crews placed 1,145 access control bollards throughout the system.

Mike Flaugher, Project Manager for Team Elmer’s, felt this was one of the most rewarding projects completed to date. “The response we received from the community and trail users during and after the trail construction was the best part about this project,” Flaugher said. “The users were excited for additional access. They appreciated our quality workmanship and our quick construction time."

The multi-purpose trail boasts one of the longest stretches in the Michigan Trail System, and it was named one of the top five autumn destinations in the nation by Rails to Trails Conservancy in 2008.

Timing: Completed in 2008
Value: $1.655 million
Partners: Michigan Department of Transportation, C2AE