The City of Hancock Recreation Commission (Michigan) convened to review development plans for Porvoo Park, hear updates from City Manager Mary Babcock, and approve funding for upcoming recreation projects.
Much of the meeting centered on Porvoo Park, where officials discussed possible uses for newly acquired space.
During public comment, Hancock City Council Member Whitney Warslter proposed installing a splash pad, while Jonathon Nagel of the Downtown Development Authority supported the idea and stressed the importance of preserving public access to the waterfront.
Commission members expressed interest in the splash pad concept but acknowledged challenges with water sourcing. If drawn from the canal, the water must be tested daily. Using the municipal water system would avoid testing requirements but could significantly increase costs.
Another issue complicating the park’s development is aging infrastructure under Porvoo Park and Navy Street.
“So this is a great plan. We just have to kind of hold off on too much more for Porvoo Park until that (infrastructure) is fixed and that comes out of the sewer department,” Babcock said, as reported by The Daily Mining Gazette on July 9.
Although larger improvements may be postponed, Babcock confirmed that dock installation at Porvoo Park is underway.
She added that the city’s campground has been fully booked this summer.
In another move, the commission approved a $15,375 expenditure to connect the Maasto Hiihto trailhead with the city’s campground trail system. The addition aims to enhance recreational access for residents and visitors.
The Hancock Trails Club received a separate funding boost. The commission approved a $14,000 grant toward the purchase of a new utility terrain vehicle to support trail maintenance and development.
Babcock also addressed the impacts of June flooding. She reported washouts on M-203 near the beach and campground, but said damage within city limits was minimal.
Looking beyond Porvoo Park, the commission approved funding of up to $30,000 to upgrade the dugouts at Hancock Driving Park’s ballfield. The project is expected to proceed in the fall and will not require plumbing or electrical work.