Western Lake Michigan Marina Upgrades

On the western shore of Lake Michigan in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, the Manitowoc Marina will begin construction of 187 new slips and berths after being awarded nearly half a million dollars in federal grant money. The marina handles everything from yacht sales to repairs to custom carpentry. The only Midwest city to be awarded a federal Boating and Infrastructure Grant (BIG), Manitowoc will use the $439,746 award to begin renovating Dock A, following the close of the 2024 sailing season. Other improvements beyond the 187 new slips include 7,768 linear feet of additional side-tie docking space for visiting boaters as well as fuel docks, showers and restrooms.

According to Rich Larsen, president of the Manitowoc Marina, the project will increase access for locals and draw tourists to the region as well. “The marina serves as a dynamic hub, connecting Manitowoc to the broader waterways and fostering economic and recreational growth right here in Manitowoc,” Larsen said. “We deeply appreciate the collaborative efforts of the city of Manitowoc, Mayor Nickels, the Wisconsin DNR and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in securing these critical upgrades. This funding is pivotal to maintain Manitowoc Marina as a premier destination on Lake Michigan.”

The grant has been described as highly competitive, and the city views the award as a major win. Manitowoc Mayor Justin Nickels attested to the marina’s value as a regional asset and that the timing is prime for re-investment. “The infrastructure is aging since it was first built over 40 years ago. This grant will allow us to invest in the marina to make it successful for the next 40 years, especially as we are seeing more and more folks utilizing our marina over others nearby,” Nickels said. “A special thanks to our staff, especially City Planner Paul Braun for always looking for grants and ways to get projects like this done.”