People of all ages and abilities will soon be able to enjoy an iconic Northern Michigan river like never before with the creation of a new Platte River park.
The Honor community came together in a big way to create a 52-acre park with 1,550 feet of frontage on Platte River. Acquiring the property for public use was Phase 1 of a multi-year initiative, thanks to a cooperative effort between the Honor Area Restoration Project, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, Homestead Township, Village of Honor, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Benzie Conservation District and Platte Lake Improvement Association.
Phase 2 will include a parking lot off Deadstream Road with paved ADA parking spaces, a universally accessible kayak/canoe launch, access pathways, benches, picnic tables, trash and recycling bins, a unisex restroom, landscaping and signage. Construction will start in late 2020.
Work will then begin immediately for Phase 3 development funding, which includes a more expansive trail system and added access for anglers.
“The impact of this new park for our fishery and anglers is outstanding,” says DNR Fisheries Division Chief Jim Dexter. “To date, there has been a lack of access to the Platte for anglers. When completed, this will provide future and forever access to our world-class resources.”
