Source: Michigan Technological University
Television coverage available here: WLUC TV 6
HOUGHTON, Mich. – The Great Lakes Sports Commission (GLSC) has awarded $150,000 in grant funding for infrastructure development at the Tech Trails. The construction of a multi-functional, community lodge at the trailhead has been a goal of Michigan Tech Director of Athletics, Suzanne Sanregret. A trail user and frequent volunteer herself, she shares how improvements to the Tech Trails will help increase the impact of a sport-minded culture in northern Michigan through ski and bike clubs.
“The Great Lakes Sports Commission plays a critical role in helping to promote our northern region as a premier destination for championship level athletic competitions—especially as they relate to cross-country skiing, cross country running, and mountain biking,” said Sanregret. “Generous funding from the commission makes access to success for athletes at all ages and levels possible.”
The $150,000 from the GLSC will be used to initiate the first phase of the Tech Trail lodge project. Funding from the commission will cover a one-time expense to run water and sewage to the location by connecting to the existing City of Houghton and Michigan Tech water mains, and the Michigan Tech sewer collecting system.
“This grant is a wonderful jump start to a great project by Michigan Tech to help promote cross country skiing, snowshoeing and fat-tire biking. I would like to thank the Great Lakes Sports Commission for funding this phase of the project,” said 110th District State Representative Greg Markkanen, R – Hancock.
The Tech Trail system is part of a larger trail system that provides world-class mountain biking that is recognized as part of northern Michigan’s world-renowned International Mountain Biking Association trail system. The trails also support a base of more than 700 Nordic skiers and a number of ski organizations.
“Great Lakes Sports Commission is proud to be able to support this investment. This project fits perfectly with our mission statement and will have a substantial impact on the local community and economy,” said GLSC Board Chair, Doug Luciani.
MTU Vice President for Advancement William Roberts said the University and the entire community is appreciative of the generous support by the GLSC. “Michigan Tech would like to thank the Great Lakes Sports Commission for their support for the trails project. We are grateful for this investment into the University and the community.”
To date, Michigan Tech has hosted five U.S. Cross Country Ski Championships which brought potential Olympians and some of the top U-18 boys and girls in the country. Competitions that are among the highest levels one can experience in this sport. Michigan Tech had been awarded the 2021 championships which have since been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
More than 200 experienced volunteers provide the various support and communications necessary to fulfill staffing requirements for the major ski events. The university also routinely hosts athletics events with more than 3,000 spectators.
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