The Great Lakes Way is a connected system of over 160 miles of land trails and 156 miles of water trails linking Lake Huron to Lake Erie. Already making a strong impact in Southeast Michigan, it offers recreation for people of all backgrounds. In 2020, the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan (CFSEM) retained PEA Group for trail design services.
PEA Group compiled data on existing blueways and greenways to identify gaps in existing infrastructure. The project started with the development of a double-sided vision map to use as a marketing tool for communities and non-profits to gain funding and support. PEA Group met with a team of stakeholders monthly to ensure The Great Lakes Way met the vision of the groups involved.
The next step of the project included collaborating with SEMCOG to create an interactive website using GIS data and research to depict which sections of the trail are complete, and what needs to be done in the future. The website also highlights some of the key cultural and historical points of interest along the route.
In 2022, CFSEM engaged our team to conduct a gap study, segmenting the proposed route by construction complexity, developing preliminary cost estimates, and assessing the overall level of effort required to make this trail to reality.
Finally, in 2024, PEA Group assisted CFSEM in a five-year report. Since its inception in 2020, the following segments have been completed:
PEA Group continues to collaborate with CFSEM and meet with the stakeholder group quarterly.
Final Vision Map
2024 Route Gap Map