Petoskey City Council and a large public audience spent significant time on Nov. 6 discussing restoration of the collapsed section of the Little Traverse wheelway and alternatives that could move people off the state highway shoulder.

Public commenters and councilmembers identified the Epler Curve and adjacent sections as safety hazards for people walking and bicycling. "I do believe that the Epler Curve in particular is a public safety hazard, and it should be dealt with immediately," said Charlie Wilmot, a resident who addressed the council during public comment.

Engineers have estimated a full coastal restoration with imported stone and structural work in the millions; council members and advocates noted that the preliminary Baird engineering study returned a 2025 cost estimate in the multi‑million range (presented figures and contingencies were discussed during the meeting). Brent Boland, speaking for a local trails group, urged private fundraising and asked the city to remain a partner. "The city has to be part of this project," Boland told the council, offering that trails advocates had donors willing to consider major contributions if the city supported the effort.

Councilmembers voiced support for a two‑track approach: pursue longer‑term restoration funding (public and private) while also advancing lower‑cost interim safety work to move users off the highway shoulder where practicable. Interim ideas raised in public comment and by staff included improving the Magnus Park connection, targeted resurfacing, temporary structural attachments at problem points, and working with MDOT on bollards or other immediate roadway protections.

Why it matters: The wheelway is a highly used recreational and transportation corridor for residents and visitors. The project raises complex tradeoffs — coastal permitting, environmental review, private easements, trucking/hauling logistics, and multiyear construction disruption — and would likely require multiple funding streams and broad regional support.

Next steps: Council members asked staff to continue pursuing possible interim safety work, to coordinate with county and state partners, and to support conversations with regional fundraising partners so longer‑term restoration planning can advance in parallel.