Muskegon leaders debate waterfront swap as environmental and valuation questions linger

City staff presented the second draft of a waterfront development agreement that would give Muskegon control of about 25 acres on the south branch of the Muskegon River and expand public lakefront frontage, with commissioners scheduling final consideration for Dec. 9.

The city manager told the commission the project is anchored by a $2,800,000 state appropriation intended for a wharf project and described the funding priorities: acquisition first, then costs tied to relocating the LST and sewer work, and finally 3rd Street Wharf improvements. “So the total grant's $2,800,000,” the city manager said, adding that staff used a hypothetical $800,000 valuation for the 3rd Street Wharf to illustrate how remaining funds would be split.

Why it matters: supporters say the deal would nearly double the city—s lake frontage and create a long-sought publicly owned waterfront corridor. Critics warned the city risks assuming expensive environmental liabilities and asked for stronger valuation safeguards before committing public dollars.

Key points and debate

Valuation and appraisals: Commissioners pressed staff on how the Verplank…