From a Single Vote to a Shared Voice: Traverse City's Quiet Revolution

In 1872, Susan B. Anthony cast a ballot she knew would be rejected, yet her act of defiance echoed through history, igniting a movement for women's rights and equality.

Today, Traverse City embodies that same spirit of civic engagement and community resilience.

Recent initiatives reflect this commitment.

The East Side Placemaking Project, also known as the 'Social District,' opened for its first full season in 2025, creating a communal space for residents to gather and connect.

Additionally, the city has embarked on a community-driven Strategic Action Plan looking out to 2030, aiming to chart a sustainable course for the future.

These efforts underscore the community's dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and active participation.

In the realm of housing, the sale of a 49-acre property by Traverse City Light & Power to Livwell Homes, LLC, marks a significant step toward sustainable development.

The planned hybrid residential community will feature a mix of single-family homes and townhomes, aligning with the city's policy on building electrification.

Furthermore, the city's recent designation as a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Entitlement Community has led to the development of a Five-Year Consolidated Plan.

This plan aims to identify priority needs and goals for housing and community development, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to assist low-to-moderate income individuals and families.

These initiatives demonstrate Traverse City's unwavering commitment to democracy and civic engagement.

By actively participating in local governance and community development, residents honor Susan B. Anthony's legacy, transforming individual acts of courage into a collective voice for progress.

In Traverse City, the art of belonging is perfected through engagement, ensuring that every voice contributes to the harmonious rhythm of community life.