New Lakefront Park Project
The next chapter in expanding public access to Muskegon Lake!
Project Overview
Help Shape Muskegon's Next Waterfront Park
Great public spaces don't just happen. They are shaped by the people who use them.
A new waterfront park is coming to downtown Muskegon, creating a place where future generations can gather, enjoy the shoreline, celebrate our connection to Muskegon Lake, and make lasting memories.
Now it's your opportunity to help shape what that place becomes.
The City of Muskegon will work with residents, businesses, community organizations, and a professional design team to explore ideas, review design concepts, and gather feedback that will help inform the park's design. Later in the process, the community will also have the opportunity to help choose a name for the park.
Whether you enjoy spending time on the waterfront or simply care about the future of Muskegon, we hope you'll be part of the conversation.
Project At A Glance
A new 3.12-acre waterfront park is planned along Muskegon Lake in downtown Muskegon, adjacent to the Shoreline Inn. The property follows the lakefront before wrapping into a protected inlet, creating a unique waterfront setting with opportunities for gathering, recreation, and enjoying the water.
The project is supported by $2.8 million in State of Michigan grant funding for property acquisition and park development.
- Location: Downtown Muskegon on Muskegon Lake, near the Shoreline Inn
- Size: 3.12 acres
- Funding: $2.8 million State of Michigan appropriation
- Construction Begins: Fall 2026
Important Dates
Public Design Review
Join us Tuesday, October 20, from 5–6:30 PM for a public design review of the soon-to-be-new downtown waterfront park (aka Third St Wharf)!
We'll have two conceptual plans for you to review, you’ll also be able to walk the property,and share your ideas for future plans.
A few things to know before you come:
Walk the property: The site is not ADA accessible at this time, and it could be a little muddy. We recommend wearing shoes you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Maybe leave the favorite sneakers at home.
Bring Ideas: We’ll have DIY park design sheets where you can sketch, draw and share your ideas for bringing this property to life.
Parking: There are two parking options:
- City lot at 4th Street & Shoreline Drive
- Smaller lot near Terrace Point Marina and the pier
If you’re able, please park at the 4th Street & Shoreline Drive lot. This will help us reserve the smaller lot for community members who need closer parking or have mobility needs. From the 4th & Shoreline lot, you’ll have the opportunity to walk the property before joining us at the tent.
Timeline
Public Design Review
Opportunities to Have Your Say
Stay Informed
Get notified about new projects, the latest updates, and new opportunities to engage.
Contact the Community Engagement Team
Building on Years of Community Vision
This project didn't start with a blank page.
For many years, expanding public access to Muskegon Lake has been a community priority. That vision has been shaped through planning efforts, public meetings, community conversations, and partnerships that ultimately led to a development agreement creating this future waterfront park (learn more about that process here).
Now that this important milestone has been reached, the community has an exciting opportunity to help shape the next chapter by influencing the park's design and helping create a space that reflects the people who will use it for years to come.