Ports and Parks Project Moves Forward Following December City Commission Approvals

At the December 9, 2025 Muskegon City Commission meeting, the City Commission approved three items for the Ports and Parks project:

1. Development Agreement
2. Rezoning of the Mart Dock property from Waterfront Marine to Waterfront Industrial PUD
3. Rezoning of a portion of the Fisherman’s Landing property from Open Space Recreation to Waterfront Industrial PUD

What’s Next?

• Fisherman’s Landing Campground will remain open through the 2026 season.
• Appraisals will begin on Fisherman's Landing and the Third Street Wharf properties
• The city anticipates closing on the new waterfront public space on 3rd Street in early 2026, with limited (not final) public access expected in summer 2026.
• The city will begin its 18-month due diligence period for the purchase of the Verplank site.
• Fisherman’s Landing boat launch and amenities will remain accessible at all times.
• The city will execute the Mart Dock lease of Fisherman’s Landing, which functions as a purchase, on March 15, 2026.

What Comes Later

• Restoration of the Verplank Property (conceptual new nature preserve).
• Planning and community engagement for the new nature preserve (what comes after restoration)
• Planning and community engagement for the new public access area at 3rd Street.
• Review and approval of the Mart Dock site plans by the Planning Commission and City Commission.
• Discussion and planning for the future movement and preservation of historic marine vessels associated with the project.

Future updates will be added to Connect Muskegon as they come available.