Popular Path on Lakeshore Reopens
A pathway to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore that had been destroyed by storms earlier this year has been replaced. The National Park Service says the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk is one of the most popular beach areas along the national lakeshore. The work also included debris removal that was completed by volunteers and staff of the city of Portage, which operates the path, and the NPS. Severe weather also caused an observation platform to collapse.
Officials say erosion, high Lake Michigan water levels and a nearby harbor have narrowed the sand beach accessible in the area. Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk includes lakefront access, multi-use trails, an accessible fishing pier, restored 900-foot breakwater and a 3,500 square-foot public pavilion with restrooms, snack bar, glass-walled classroom and meeting space.