The City of Portage is proud to announce that the Lakeview Park Renovation project has been named the APWA Southwest Michigan Branch Public Works Project of the Year in the Structures Category ($1 Million–$5 Million). The Southwest Michigan Branch of the American Public Works Association represents local public works professionals as part of a national organization promoting leadership, innovation, and excellence in public works.
The Lakeview Park Renovation, completed in October 2025 and overseen by Portage Parks & Recreation, modernized one of the city’s oldest parks with a $1.87 million investment funded by $1million in American Rescue Plan Act funds, the city Capital Improvement Program and private donations. Key improvements include:
- 810-foot canal boardwalk with 24 new light poles
- Game Pocket recreational area with tables and seating
- Expanded fishing piers with shade canopies
- Inspiration Garden pergola and updated trails, lighting, and landscaping
- New bike rental system and repair station
The project enhances safety, accessibility, recreational opportunities, and environmental quality, including the planting of native species and removal of invasive plants. Construction was managed by OCBA Landscape Architects and Balkema Construction, Inc., with close coordination for permitting, soil remediation, and ADA compliance. Portage Department of Public Works personnel were also instrumental in completing several project components.
“This has been an exciting project to upgrade one of the city’s oldest parks and create new recreational opportunities and expanded accessibility for all residents,” said Kathleen Hoyle, Director of Portage Parks & Recreation. “We are proud to provide a safe, inclusive, and environmentally conscious park that the community can enjoy for generations to come.”
The City of Portage thanks the APWA Southwest Michigan Branch, project partners, contractors, donors, and the community for supporting this award-winning renovation.