The Plum Creek Foundation recently awarded a $2,275 grant to AuTrain Township to help fund the purchase and installation of an EZ Dock System as part of the AuTrain Heritage Trailhead Development project.

This is the latest of several donations made by several entities to this worthwhile project, which is expected to open to the public this spring. The $333,000 project is also being funded by the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, Upper Peninsula Power Co., Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and other organizations.

Plum Creek Foundation officials said the goal of the project, which broke ground last summer, is to create a new outdoor recreation area that will feature a universal kayak launch and fishing pier, railroad depot pavilion, interpretive center, picnic tables, restrooms and a trailhead for biking, snowmobiling, ATV use and more.

The new recreation area is expected to enhance tourism, promote natural resources and physical activity and stimulate economic development in Alger County.

“The AuTrain project is a wonderful addition to an already beautiful and popular area,” said Kathy Reynolds, executive director of the Alger County Chamber of Commerce. “This site will provide opportunities for not only residents of the area, but also visitors. By incorporating universal access in various forms, this opens up opportunities not found in other areas for those wanting to enjoy some of the area’s natural resources.”

The project is located alongside M-28, only a short distance upstream from the mouth of the AuTrain River at Lake Superior. The site is popular with anglers, paddlers and the nearby beach is a favored swimming area in the summertime.

We think this is yet another great project helped substantially by a grant from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, a matching donation from AuTrain Township and smaller, but yet vital, donations from entities like the Plum Creek Foundation.

We anticipate the resource will get a good deal of use and we encourage those who haven’t to explore the beauty and recreational opportunities of Alger County.