The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has approved $3.8 million USD in funding through its Waterways Grant Program to support recreational boating infrastructure. The funding includes a significant share allocated to marina upgrades and related engineering projects across 12 counties.
The 2025 funding round includes grants for facilities such as Hessel Marina, New Baltimore Marina, Mackinaw City Marina and Harbor View Marina in Ludington. Projects range from dock and breakwall repairs to fuel tank replacement and floating dock upgrades, with local communities asked to contribute a 50% match under the grant-in-aid scheme.
Harbor View Marina in Ludington received the largest allocation of nearly $1.49 million for the replacement of A Dock, supported by a community contribution of $495,618. New Baltimore Marina secured two separate grants totalling $750,000 to complete phases of breakwall expansion, pier repair and boat well upgrades. In East Jordan, a grant of $558,600 will support phase two of the marina’s development, focusing on floating dock replacement and utility works.
Additional engineering and infrastructure grants were awarded to L’Anse Marina, Sebewaing Harbor, Port Sanilac Marina, Frankfort Municipal Marina and others, addressing elements such as skid pier and ramp replacements. In total, 12 communities across the state will benefit from the funding, contributing over $4.3 million collectively to achieve a total project investment exceeding $8.1 million.
The Waterways Grant Programme, launched in 1949, aims to maintain and expand Michigan’s network of recreational boating access sites and harbours. The system now comprises more than 1,200 access points and 82 harbours across the Great Lakes. The grants are funded through the Michigan State Waterways Fund, which is supported by boat registration fees and a portion of state fuel taxes.
Kristen Kosick, Chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division, stated, “Michigan is home to great boating and fantastic freshwater recreation opportunities. Our beautiful state offers outdoor recreation opportunities and picturesque views not found anywhere else, so it’s critical that the DNR helps invest in and fund Michigan’s harbours and boating access sites for the benefit of all.”
Local units of government and public institutions, including state colleges and universities, are eligible to apply for future funding rounds. The DNR has posted that the application deadline for the 2026 grant cycle is set for 1 April 2026.
