$473,700 DNR SPARKS grant has funded Sunken Lake Park improvements; $110,000 in work remains

Becky Rivard of Huron Engineering and Parks Commission Vice‑Chair Dave Guthrie updated the committee that Alpena County was awarded $473,700 through a Michigan DNR SPARKS grant for Sunken Lake Park improvements.

Rivard outlined completed projects: an ADA‑accessible campsite and connecting paths between the playground and bathhouse, an additional playground, an exercise station, wood‑chipped and improved hiking trails including an ADA‑accessible trail, benches and picnic tables, trail gates, upgraded electrical service to support larger campers, a kayak boat launch, a Mobi‑mat at the beach access, and a gazebo in the day‑use area. Rivard said the remaining 2026 plan (approximately $110,000) includes additional campsites near the lake, pavement millings, lot remarking, a new park map for publication, and construction of an observation platform on the island overlooking the lake. The goal is to complete the three remaining projects in early summer and close out the grant.

Why it matters: The SPARKS grant funds accessibility and amenities that expand park use and accessibility for residents and visitors.

What’s next: Parks staff and consultants expect to finish the remaining projects by early summer and then close out the grant.