A reimagined waterfront space near Nautical Drive aimed at improving the boat launch, strengthening the dock wall, and enhancing access and safety is getting closer to becoming a reality, thanks to a pair of grants awarded to the City of Sturgeon Bay.
Last week, the city learned it had received a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Recreational Boating Facilities grant of $518,414 and a Wisconsin Department of Transportation Harbor Assistance Program grant of $188,000. The funding will support a project that has been years in the making.
In 2024, the Sturgeon Bay Common Council moved forward with a concept created by Edgewater Resources. The plan includes a Sail Training Foundation building, a new E-Dock, and a renovated boat ramp at the city-owned property next to the Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club.
Sturgeon Bay City Administrator Josh Van Lieshout says grants like these make projects attainable and help move progress forward more quickly.
The Sturgeon Bay Common Council will discuss the DNR grant during its meeting Tuesday at 6 p.m. The agenda also includes approval of a preliminary plat for Heron Crossing, amendments to the development agreement for Sawyer Park Flats, and the purchase of South 18th Avenue.
Sturgeon Bay was not the only recipient of a Wisconsin Department of Transportation Harbor Assistance Program grant. Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding received $411,000 for dock wall repairs and fender system improvements to help protect Great Lakes vessels from damage during berthing for repairs.
