Park Projects

The following Parks & Recreation projects are designed to enhance our parks and recreation amenities and are part of the Portage Parks & Recreation Open Space Plan. 

Lakeview Park (Phase I)

Construction Start Date: Spring 2024
Anticipated Project Completion: Summer 2025

Lakeview Park, a beloved community space founded in 1970, is currently undergoing a transformative renovation to revitalize its aging amenities, most of which were originally constructed in the 1970s and 1980s. Following a public input meeting organized by Portage Parks & Recreation in May 2022, the city has made adjustments to the project’s design to better align with the preferences and needs of the community. As one of the city’s oldest parks, boasting 1,200 feet of shoreline along Austin Lake, the renovation aims to upgrade and enhance the current features enjoyed by citizens, while introducing exciting new additions. Among these enhancements is a new game area equipped with outdoor ping pong, cornhole, and game tables, providing additional recreational opportunities for park-goers. Noteworthy improvements include the expansion and addition of roof structures on the two popular fishing docks, the creation of inviting sitting areas along a new boardwalk with scenic water views, and the establishment of an inspiration garden seamlessly integrated with existing walking trails, offering a tranquil space for passive relaxation. The plan also addresses environmental considerations, such as the removal of invasive plants along the waterfront, the clearing of dead and diseased trees, and the introduction of native trees and plants as part of the park’s land management strategy. In preparation for future developments, utility upgrades are underway to support the construction of a new restroom building, facilitate picnic rentals, and accommodate future electric vehicle charging stations. Construction for this phase of the project is scheduled to commence in early spring 2024, with completion expected by the end of the year. Subsequent phases of the renovation will focus on park rental facilities, parking lots, the relocation and widening of the entrance, and the incorporation of additional amenities. Notably, there are no plans to include a boat launch facility, boat docks, or any alterations to the existing channel under Portage Road. The community can look forward to a revitalized Lakeview Park that combines modern amenities with the natural beauty that has made it a cherished part of the city for over five decades.

Lakeview Park (Phase II)

Engineering Design Start Date: In Process

Lakeview Park Master Plan

Lexington Green Park Improvements

Construction Start Date: Spring 2024
Anticipated Project Completion: Ribbon Cutting - October 10 at 10 AM

Lexington Green Park, a 23-acre community park in the Lexington Green neighborhood, has undergone an exciting renovation to improve its facilities and amenities. Over the past few years, the City of Portage worked closely with neighborhood residents, families, seniors, and community organizations to develop a plan that meets the needs of the community.

The renovation focuses on the west side of the park, with more passive recreational activities to the south and active recreational opportunities to the north. The park now features walking loops and lamp-lighted trails, basketball and pickleball courts, and a bike ramp course. A new central restroom and pavilion provide a hub for park visitors, with a large playscape located nearby.

Neighbors played a key role in selecting the playground equipment, choosing swings -including those for toddlers - and a large play structure with multiple slides, ramps, and climbing elements suitable for children of all ages and abilities, along with a vibrant color scheme.

The project was supported by a generous $500,000 Land and Water grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, matched by City funds, to complete the construction. The park now offers a beautiful and functional space that enhances the quality of life for everyone in the Lexington Green neighborhood.

Lexington Green Improvement Map
Lexington Green Playground

Farmers Market

  • Engineering Design: In Process
  • Anticipated Project Completion: 2026

East Central Trail

Austin Lake Trail

The proposed Austin Lake Trail has long been a community aspiration – a non-motorized, paved off-road trail spanning three miles from the southern city border along the scenic east side of Austin Lake to Zylman Avenue. The trail would serve as a vital connection to the Vicksburg Trail. A draft of the proposed Austin Lake Trail Plan is available for review by clicking on the link below or in person at Portage Parks & Recreation, 320 Library Lane.

  • Planned Construction Start: Fall / Winter 2025
  • Anticipated Project Completion: Spring 2027

 Austin Lake Trail Route

Elijah Root Dam Removal

  • Feasibility Study in Process with the Army Corps of Engineers