MARQUETTE — After several years of preparation and public input opportunities, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is close to finalizing development plans for a new public outdoor shooting range near Goose Lake in Richmond Township.

Those interested in learning about the shooting range project are invited to a DNR open house from 3 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, at the Richmond Township Hall, 100 Smith St., Palmer.

The Marquette Range site, the DNR said, is located on property in Richmond Township the DNR has leased from Cleveland-Cliffs.

The facility will be accessible off of Marquette County Road 480 from the Goose Lake Access Road.

Development of a new public range will enable the DNR and Cleveland-Cliffs to close an informal, makeshift target shooting location that, though popular, is not suitable for public use, the DNR said.

The new range will meet or exceed Americans with Disabilities Act accessibility guidelines.The DNR said it will also provide hunters with the opportunity to increase firearm proficiency and safety, and allow recreational shooters to practice their sport in a safe, accommodating area that expands use potential beyond the summer months.

“We’re excited to see this project moving into the final stages, because everyone has put in a lot of time and effort to get it right for the community and for our customers,” said Lori Burford, DNR shooting range specialist, in a news release. “This will be the first DNR-managed shooting range in the Upper Peninsula, available to anyone who wants to enjoy shooting sports.”

The Marquette Range has been in the planning stages for several years, with opportunities for public comment in 2017 and 2019.

The public may attend the open house anytime between 3 and 6:30 p.m. on Thursday.

DNR staff will showcase the different components of the range and then offer time for people to ask questions and share feedback.

Those who cannot attend the event are encouraged to share comments via email to Burford at BurfordL@Michigan.gov by Oct. 6.

Additional information on the Marquette Range project and all DNR range development plans is available on the department’s shooting range updates webpage.