Cedar Springs CBDT Launches Cedar Creek Boardwalk Project

CEDAR SPRINGS - Momentum is building for a proposed boardwalk along Cedar Creek that has been in the works for over ten years.

On Wednesday, May 13, the Cedar Springs Community Building Development Team (CBDT) board members unanimously approved a contract for the engineering phase of the multi phase project, marking the first official step toward bringing the long discussed Cedar Creek boardwalk and fishing stations to life.

The project, developed by Fleis and Vandenbrink, will be constructed on city property after receiving approval from the Cedar Springs City Council during its December 2025 regular meeting.

Fully funded through private donations, the Fishing Line Trail will move forward without using taxpayer dollars. Anonymous donors have contributed $30,000 to kickstart the effort, with the understanding that the funds would help cover the estimated $33,800 engineering cost for Phase I as well as materials for the first fishing station, projected at approximately $10,000. Organizers anticipate the fishing station will be built using donated labor and expect additional fundraising to continue as excitement around the project grows.

Phase I is planned to extend from the White Pine Trail east to Main Street. The long term vision is even broader. Once complete, the boardwalk would connect Heart of Cedar Springs Park and Riggle Park along the south side of Cedar Creek, link the White Pine Trail with the North Park trailhead, and create a continuous recreational corridor stretching from Main Street to 17 Mile Road near West Street.

The boardwalk’s name, the “Fishing Line Trail,” pays tribute to Cedar Springs history. In the late 1800s, as the lumber industry declined, the GR&I Railroad rebranded part of its route as “The Fishing Line” to promote tourism and fishing excursions into Michigan’s north country. The effort intended to draw visitors from cities as far away as Cincinnati by leaning on Cedar Springs’ connection to outdoor recreation.

Today’s project reflects that same spirit, with the hope of creating a welcoming space where families can fish along Cedar Creek and where walkers, runners, and nature lovers can enjoy a scenic path connecting both downtown and uptown.

The CBDT, comprised of residents, organizations, and businesses, has now surpassed $3 million in donated funds, projects, and services since its creation in 2013. This phase of the CBDT Master Plan will compliment Cedar Springs' efforts to further enhance the north end of town.

"The CBDT, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, has many opportunities for donors such as sponsoring a fishing station, park bench, or for general needs," stated Sue Wolfe, CBDT Secretary. "An Unveiling Ceremony will be held soon so watch for information in the Bugle, City Hall, CBDT website, or contact any CBDT board member. Now is a great time to get involved and help complete this project," Wolfe said.

With a contract signed and donor support in place, the Fishing Line Trail is moving from vision to reality, offering residents a new way to gather, explore, and connect along the water that shaped Cedar Springs’ very foundation. Donations can be made to CBDT and mailed to 15290 Tisdel Ave, Cedar Springs, MI 49319