LANSING, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Aug. 21, 2026) – Nine parks projects in Ottawa and Allegan County are in line for state funds.
On Thursday, the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund disclosed a list of 75 land acquisition and park development projects statewide that will share in $45 million of grants, leveraging nearly $64 million in local and matching funds, for a nearly $109 million total investment in public land and outdoor recreation.
Here’s a list of projects from the Lakeshore receiving these grants:
- $400,000 for the city of Holland to replace a deteriorated 30-year-old boardwalk at Van Raalte Farm Park.
- $2.5 million for Saugatuck Township to acquire 119 acres on the Kalamazoo River, including more than 2,200 feet of river frontage, for a new destination park and nature preserve.
- $400,000 for Saugatuck Township to extend the Blue Star Trail 3 miles along Blue Star Highway, including a separated bike lane over I-196 and a new trailhead.
- $400,000 for Ottawa County to improve accessibility at Rosy Mound Natural Area, including accessible trails, a Lake Michigan overlook and a new regional trailhead.
- $400,000 for Ottawa County to build a 0.7-mile segment of the Idema Explorers Trail across the Bass River, connecting the Bass River State Recreation Area to local neighborhoods.
- $400,000 for the city of Hudsonville to build a 30-space parking lot and trailhead patio at the Hudsonville Nature Center.
- $840,000 for Spring Lake Township to acquire one acre on Petty’s Bayou, creating a new waterfront park with a canoe and kayak launch, fishing access, and wildlife viewing.
- $400,000 for the village of Spring Lake to build a new universally accessible pavilion at Central Park, along with access paths and a rain garden.
- $400,000 for the city of Otsego to build barrier-free restrooms and changing rooms at Riverfront Park, along with a firepit near the pavilion.
The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund has awarded around $1.4 billion to state and local units of government in land acquisition and improvements since it was established in 1976, with the money coming through interest and earnings on funds derived from the revenues of state-owned oil, gas and minerals.
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