Renaming Old Airport Property

City Council Agenda Item Report FROM:

Ryan Cummins, City Manager

MEETING DATE:

January 22, 2025

SUBJECT:

Renaming Old Airport Property

DESCRIPTION: This spring, with donated dollars, the Outdoor Discovery Center will be completing the parking lot, trail work, platform, and signage for the Old Airport Property. As this property is opened up to the public, Council should consider whether a name change for the property is appropriate. Options to develop a new name for the property could include any one or combination of the following:   

Staff recommendations. Request to Parks and Public Works Committee for a recommendation. City Council brainstorming.

City Council will make the final decision on any name change. Staff seeks Council feedback on your desire to rename the property and process to be used. LEGAL REVIEW: Legal will be at your meeting to answer any questions you may have. SAMPLE MOTION: N/A. Workshop item at this time.

Date: December 20, 2024 To:

Saugatuck Township c/o Lynee Wells 3461 Blue Star Highway P.O. Box 100 Saugatuck, Michigan 49453

From: Nate Bosch, LLA, LEED AP ODC Network RE:

Outdoor Discovery Center – Former Saugatuck Airport Improvements

About the ODC Network ODC Network is a non-profit organization committed to connecting communities to the outdoors through conservation and education. We prioritize creating experiences in nature for people of all ages, working with public schools, community organizations, governments, non-profit organizations, and private institutions to create a unique model for education. A specific component of this mission is through conservation and constructing facilities that offer access to the outdoors. Objectives The overall objective is to activate this public land for community use. Improvements / updates to the site include renovating the existing aggregate parking area to create clarity for visitors, a new trailhead sign for interpretation and wayfinding, invasive species removal, trail clearing and improvements, and a small deck lookout. Structures A small deck platform will be constructed as part of the improvements. The likely size will be approximately 20x20’. The location is shown on the plan sheets. Timetable The ODC Network anticipates construction beginning in early spring of 2025, with completion anticipated in late spring, 2025. Contact Information Nate Bosch nate@outdoordiscovery.org