The Michigan DNR is in the process of buying the more than an acre of land surrounding their current boat access site on Torch Lake, hoping to fix a number of issues.
“Torch Lake is the most beautiful lake, everyone wants to be here,” says Terra Garrow from .
The lake is known for its popular sand bar and crystal waters, however accessing the lake has also been known for being a headache for tourists and locals.
“There’s not sufficient parking right now and to try to get to work on July 3rd, July 4th is nearly impossible.” Says Garrow. “Once people find a parking spot they are then walking with coolers and floaties and children and it gets dangerous.”
Right now the only place to park is down the street, says Milton Township Supervisor Lon Bargy. “During the summer, during the fourth, there’s traffic backups trying to get in and out of the launch, people will sit there high as ten minutes in the road, can’t move, people try to back in, they don’t know how to back up.”
That’s why the DNR is planning to expand the public boat access site on the corner of crystal beach road and torch lake drive.
Richard Hill, parks and recreation division supervisor says, “With the new acquisition that we’re working towards, we’ll be hopeful to be able to not only to increase our parking, but really help with how that launch is being used and make it a much more user friendly boating access site.”
Hill says the goal is to not only increase parking but add safety. “I think most importantly, it’s going to keep people from walking on the road, and having to cross the street.”
Allowing more people to have a fun, safe and stress-free holiday in beautiful northern Michigan.
Garrow says, “The tourists are not going to stop coming, so to make it easier for everyone, locals included, might be the best route.”
The DNR purchased the land for about $1.5 million. They are currently in the closing process, then will begin seeking funds for construction. They hope to start this year.
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