Traverse City officials are considering new management proposals for two key city-owned buildings, the Bijou by the Bay and the Carnegie Library, as outlined in a memo from Deputy City Manager Deborah Allen.
The Bijou by the Bay building, previously operated as a theater by the Traverse City Film Festival, is currently vacant, while the Carnegie Library is occupied by the Crooked Tree Art Center. The city is looking to issue requests for proposals (RFPs) to explore potential uses for these spaces.
Benjamin Marentette, Interim City Manager, expressed excitement about the opportunity to reassess these community assets, stating, “This is an exciting opportunity to look again at these important community assets and determine the path forward.”
The City Opera House, located at 106 E. Front Street, was deeded to the city for $1 in 1980 and is a landmark venue anchoring downtown Traverse City. It has historically been self-sustaining through retail tenant leases, but recent assessments have identified maintenance needs including structural flooring backstage and roof repairs.
The Carnegie Library, built in 1905 and expanded in 1966, is currently leased to the Crooked Tree Art Center with a lease expiring in October 2026. The building requires significant restoration, including historic windows and HVAC system upgrades, estimated at $583,000.
The Con Foster/Bijou Building, located on city park property, was previously leased to the Traverse City Film Festival until 2024 and remains vacant. The building was renovated in 2013 as a theater, which limits reuse options or increases conversion costs.
Come Monday December 8, The Traverse City Commission will discuss the future uses of these properties, considering factors such as desired types of use, length of management agreements, and minimum agreement payments. The decisions at the 7 p.m. meeting will shape the city’s strategic planning and community engagement efforts.