Accessible Walkway to be Installed before Memorial Day at Ludington's Stearns Park Beach
The beauty of Stearns Beach in Ludington makes it one of the most popular beaches along Lake Michigan. While most of us can walk through the sand to Lake Michigan's shoreline, many cannot--those in wheelchairs or people who have motor disabilities. Even families have great difficulty pushing strollers or wagons through the sand. But this can all change...Disability Connections of West Michigan and the City of Ludington are parterning to install an accessible walkway at Stearns Beach. It would begin at the sidewalk by the North Concession Stand and cover the 300 yards down to the water. Plans are to have it installed before Memorial Day, and taken down each year after Labor Day and stored until the following year.
There will be a total of 600 boards that make up the walkway, with each board costing $35. Through various donations, including a large $10,000 anonymous donation, money has already been raised to build the walkway. There are ongoing discussions on how to spend the leftover money. Firebird Laser Engraving of Ludington will engrave your name or special message on the board, so generations to come can appreciate the beach and the community support that made this project possible.
It's not too late...if you're interested in purchasing a board, contact Disability Connection Accessibility Advocate Deb Wright at (231) 845-6445, or email her at debwright7@aol.com. You will then receive a letter and form; just mail your check and the form back to Deb, and she'll take care of the rest!
It's a small price to pay for such an important addition to Stearns Beach. Let's make sure everyone can enjoy the beach and water. Consider purchasing your board today so the beach and walkway can be in place for Ludington's summer visitors.
