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Oscoda outlines park upgrades and grant applications for beach, river preserve and pavilion
Summary
Township staff reviewed design and funding priorities for Oscoda Beach Park boardwalk and ADA access (MNRTF request $400,000 with $200,000 local match), the Ken Ratliff pavilion project funded by MDNR Passport, and AuSable River Preserve improvements tied to an MNRTF request of $360,000 with a $95,000 match.
During the Feb. 6 work session, Oscoda Township staff presented parks priorities, maps and design alternatives.
Staff highlighted Oscoda Beach Park as a near‑term priority: a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant application for $400,000 with a proposed $200,000 local match is targeted for 2026 to fund boardwalk repair/replacement, improved ADA beach access and dune restoration; design work for boardwalk alignment options is already funded. The packet included three alternative boardwalk alignments and associated drawings for review.
Staff also reported that the Ken Ratliff project used an MDNR Passport grant of $150,000 with a $37,500 local match (2025) and that a Warrior Pavilion, bathroom/bathhouse and kayak/fishing pier work are funded and complete. The AuSable River Preserve was listed for an MNRTF request of $360,000 with a $95,000 local match for 2025 improvements including invasive species management, signage, trails and parking; future priorities include restrooms and a kiosk.
Staff reviewed other grant windows and opportunities — MDNR Passport, MNRTF, MDOT TAP and Safe Routes to School — and encouraged coordination of matching funds and schedules. Several maps and site plans in the packet illustrated property lines, parking, trail connections and proposed amenities.
The board received the information; no park project awards or binding approvals were made at the work session.
