SLBE TAIP- -Platte River Corridor Accessibility Improvements

The National Park Service (NPS), at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, plans to expand accessibility at key points within the Platte River corridor. The project will provide a universal experience for their facilities at the Loon Lake access, Platte River Campground, Platte River Picnic Area and canoe/kayak launch, and Platte Point. Improvements will also occur at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire. This project, part of the Targeted Accessibility Improvement Program (TAIP), has a unique opportunity to provide expanded accessibility for all people to experience the Lakeshore though kayaking, canoeing, tubing, swimming, fishing, picnicking, and camping. Universally designed interpretive media will include indoor and outdoor exhibits, and orientation signs that incorporate audio, tactile, and written communication methods.

Physical improvements include accessible oversized parking stalls, accessible routes to activity areas, restrooms, campground facilities such as pay stations, water spigots and fire rings, accessible kayaks/canoe launch and pullout, and fishing and fish cleaning. Programmatic improvements include improving or replacing interpretive media to provide information about recreational experiences so that visitors with disabilities and their companions can prepare for and engage in the activities.