Tourists taking the road less traveled could make all the difference for some local businesses.
M-15 has been named the first Heritage Route in the state of Michigan. The idea was begun by Chamber of Commerce organizations at least 20 years ago, with a plan to advertise parks, festivals and summer events to get travelers off I-75 and on to M-15.
‘We want to improve business and have people take advantage of what we have to offer, (including) museums, car shows and festivals,? says M-15 Heritage Route Committee Chairman Steve Erickson. ‘There are so many fun activities, that we would like to encourage folks to come visit us when we have these events.?
The M-15 Heritage Route stretches 84 miles from Clarkston north to Bay City, crossing four counties. Members of the route committee recently attended an Ortonville Chamber of Commerce meeting to discuss their plans, which include placing new brochures at rest stops along I-75. These brochures will promote businesses along the M-15 corridor, directly off of it (including Goodrich and Ortonville downtowns), festivals and more.
The route committee is working closely with the Michigan Department of Transportation, says Erickson, which keeps the committee updated on construction. There are no current plans to widen M-15. The route committee is working on a plan for a non-motorized bike path along M-15; however, a feasibility study is needed and it would be years in the future.
Erickson is hoping more travelers will get off I-75 and see what communities along M-15 have to offer.
‘Take a slow journey down M-15, get gas, food, shop for antiques and gifts,? Erickson said. ‘If you’re looking for a fun time, we believe we can provide that, with miles of smiles.?
Details: www.m15heritageroute.org