Enhanced island access, Sleeping Bear Dunes seeks public input for Manitou Islands dock project
National Park Service launches environmental assessment for vital dock repairs
From staff reports
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is inviting the public to comment on a project to improve safe and reliable boat access to the Manitou Islands. The approximately $32 million project, funded by the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Legacy Restoration Fund, will address the impact of natural processes, such as littoral drift (shifting sands) and high-water levels, on the islands’ docks. The Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Manitou Islands dock project will be open for a 30-day public comment period until May 15.
“We at the park are grateful to receive funding from the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) for this critical project that will ensure ongoing safe and consistent access to the Manitou Islands,” said Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore superintendent Scott Tucker. “These islands are treasured destinations at the park, and the docks are a critical point of access for visitors to experience all that the islands have to offer.”
The EA outlines proposals for repairing or replacing docks at North and South Manitou Islands to mitigate sediment accumulation and to maintain access for visitors. Hard copies are available for review at the park headquarters at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, 9922 Front Street, Empire, MI 49630.
The NPS will also host a virtual public meeting on May 2, 2024, at 6 p.m. For more information on attending the meeting, please click here.
Comments can be submitted here, or mailed or hand delivered to Superintendent, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, 9922 Front Street, Empire, MI 49630. Please provide comment by May 15.
Commenters should be aware that their entire comment—including personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While commenters can ask that their personal identifying information be withheld from public review, the NPS cannot guarantee that this will be possible.
GAOA is part of a concerted effort to address the extensive deferred maintenance and repair backlog in national parks. Supported by revenue from energy development, GAOA’s Legacy Restoration Fund provides up to $1.3 billion per year for five years to the NPS to make significant enhancements in national parks to ensure their preservation and provide opportunities for recreation, education, and enjoyment for current and future visitors.
