Myth Busting: Traffic on M-22 Exists Today

There are facts and then there are myths. One myth that opponents of Timber Shores frequently voice is that building a campground will cause an increase in traffic on M-22. Another is that there are already places for campers to stay in Leelanau Township. Those are both easy misdirections to dispel and even more reason for a NO vote on the amended zoning ordinance.

The fact is that traffic is already here.
Beckett & Raeder, the firm working with Leelanau Township on its master plan, sent a memo to the township in April 2022. In it they outlined the average annual daily traffic on M-22 as reported by the State of Michigan. It breaks down as follows:

• South Township line to Omena - 5,357 vehicles per day

• Omena to Northport - 2,649 vehicles per day

That's right. There are over 2,600 vehicles per day on an annual average that drive between Omena and Northport. This is an average daily figure derived by dividing all traffic over a year by 365. Obviously the numbers are much higher in the summer season. Does anyone really think that the addition of 335 vehicles coming to Timber Shores is going to miraculously create a traffic jam? Especially when you consider that most visitors are coming to the park to relax and enjoy the park's amenities. Yes, they will venture into town to buy groceries, eat at the restaurants and shop but not all at once and not all on the same days. Plus, Timber Shores is planning shuttles to make it easier for campers to hitch a ride to town. Misdirection, you bet!