If you’ve driven past the site of the Thompsonville Junction Trailhead Project lately, you might have noticed something exciting: progress! After a year of behind-the-scenes maneuvering, we are thrilled to share that the heavy machinery is officially on-site and the dirt is moving.
Here is a look back at the hurdles we cleared in 2025 and a preview of the finish line ahead.
Why the Wait? Clearing the Regulatory Hurdles
Following our official groundbreaking on July 11th, a significant amount of work took place behind the scenes before heavy equipment could officially roll onto the site. We worked closely with the state (EGLE) and the Benzie-Leelanau Health Department to ensure every detail of our campground and sanitation facilities met their rigorous standards.
While the process required a great deal of patience and diligence, the result is worth it: the legitimacy and safety of our site are now fully vetted and approved. We are building this to last.
The Home Stretch: Fundraising & The Final $100k
Building a dream isn’t cheap – especially in a changing economy. Between necessary septic design changes, rising costs for materials, and the unpredictable “surprises” that come with Michigan winters, our project cost is now projected at $1.25 million.
The good news? We are incredibly close. We only have about $100,000 left to raise to fully fund the entire project.
To help us reach the finish line, we are exploring a “Public Spaces Community Places” crowdfunding campaign for Spring 2026. This initiative, hosted through Patronicity.com, works alongside the MEDC and the Michigan Municipal League to provide a dollar-for-dollar match on all funds raised—essentially doubling your impact once we meet our goal. Stay tuned for more details!
More Than Just a Trailhead
While the construction site took center stage, TARP remained busy beautifying and educating our community throughout 2025:
- We continued our tradition of planting and maintaining the sidewalk flower squares, bringing color to the heart of Thompsonville.
- Our volunteers hit the pavement for the Lindy Road litter clean-up in June.
- We partnered with the Betsie Valley District Library and the Benzie Area Historical Society to host guided historical tours—including a special session for Mr. Wassa’s 5th-grade class from Betsie Valley Elementary!
Our efforts even caught the eye of the media, with features in the Traverse City Record Eagle, The Benzie Record Patriot, and The Rural Innovations Exchange.
Looking Ahead to 2026
What began five years ago as a community discussion – and what some skeptics called an “impossible dream”- is finally becoming a reality.
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to our financial supporters, our tireless volunteers, and our community partners. Your input and generosity are the engine driving this project forward.
2026 is going to be our biggest year yet. Let’s finish strong!
The Thompsonville Area Revitalization Project is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization, dedicated undertake projects which improve the quality of life for all people in the greater Thompsonville area.
Interested in how you can make a difference? Learn more about the project and how you can donate to the organization.
