I would make a run at Gold even if your travel plans next year aren't going to be heavy. I make weekly business trips to LGA (or JFK if I have to go back to LAX on certain weekends for family business) and the difference between gold and silver are bigger then you think. Based on my experience outside of the 25% vs. 100% bonus.

- Access to SkyPriority services and security lines on certain airports (I have been on non-hub terminal in IND where it's clear that if I need to check in a bag, they force me to use the general line) The security on the general lines at LGA can be a bit crazy and disorganized. I had to wait at least an hour to get through security at LGA through the general line vs. no more than 10 minutes on the SkyPriority line.
- Upgrades as a GM were much easier to get going into/from LGA or JFK than as an FO. My upgrade % as a GM were at least 75% more successful than an FO member

Sure you can stay at FO, roll over the miles, and require fewer miles to fly in order to keep at FO. However, I did this and I am regretting this. Plus if you change your mind about being an FO member and have another airline that you have higher status on another airline that you want to match to Delta GM, they won't do it because you are already an elite status member.

Also, since they have the rollover miles rule (assuming that you qualify for any elite status every year), I would almost totally bet the house that a double/triple EQM promotion is possible.