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County approves engineering design work for Dune Harbor Park South Lake; names Daniel P. Shorette observation deck
Summary
The committee approved a proposal with MCSA Group Inc. for engineering services at Dune Harbor Park South Lake, not to exceed $136,570, and formally named the planned observation deck the Daniel P. Shorette observation deck; funding sources include a community foundation fund from private donors and prior land donation.
The Muskegon County Community Development and Strategic Planning Committee on May 15 approved engineering services for improvements at Dune Harbor Park’s South Lake and agreed to name a planned observation structure the Daniel P. Shorette observation deck.
The committee approved a proposal from MCSA Group Inc. for work related to South Lake improvements at the Seminole parking lot, including alternates, in an amount not to exceed $136,570. The motion also included naming the observation deck the Daniel P. Shorette observation deck. The motion was moved by Chair Nash and supported by Commissioner McGuigan and carried by voice vote.
County staff said the project stems from a concept master plan developed with Purdue University and the National Park Service Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance program and from multiple public meetings. The approved South Lake scope focuses on an accessible observation deck, restrooms, an improved trail, a fishing pier, and a kayak-accessible launch and connections to the undeveloped North Lake. Staff described the deck as accessible for people with disabilities and suitable for hosting educational and volunteer programming.
Funding for the South Lake engineering and initial construction work will come from an existing fund housed at a local community foundation, raised in part by the Land Conservancy of West Michigan and private donors, staff said. The county will also explore Michigan Department of Natural Resources grant opportunities for later phases, particularly for more intensive work at the North Lake.
Staff said leftover funds from a land donation will cover the immediate South Lake work, and that the board previously approved a volunteer coordinator hire supported by a Consumers Energy grant to run programming at the park for two seasons. Staff indicated plans to complete design documents by November 2025 and to begin construction in 2026, with a formal dedication event planned for the deck once built.
Ending: The committee approved the engineering contract and the naming; staff will return with design milestones and construction timelines as planning advances.
