On June 26, 2023, the Marquette County Planning Division submitted a MI DNR Spark Grant application for nearly $1M to revitalize Little Trout Lake Park in KI Sawyer. Project goals include establishing a community wellness hub at the Park.

 

In December 2023, the grant was awarded in the amount of $997,000 to invest in safety and security features, accessibility improvements, and park enhancements to create a more enjoyable outdoor gathering space for KI Sawyer residents and visitors.

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In February 2024, the design and construction management services were awarded to Northern Design Works.

 

During 2024, site analysis, plans, and specifications development were underway led by Northern Design Works with assistance from the County Planning Division and our wonderful stakeholders! 

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In August 2024, thanks to the Marquette County Land Bank Authority (who obtained blight elimination funding from the State Land Bank) three buildings, an unsafe bridge over the Silver Lead Creek, and many small structures were removed.​

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On October 17th, 2024, a community meeting was held to discuss the project.

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In January 2025, the project plans were submitted to the Michigan DNR for review and approval.

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In April 2025, the County issued a request for proposals for construction of the Little Trout Lake Park Revival Project. Four bids were received and reviewed by Northern Design Works.

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On May 20, 2025, the Marquette County Board of Commissioners awarded the construction contract to Associated Constructors, also approved by the Michigan DNR.

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In June 2025, construction officially began, and the Park temporarily closed to the public. Improvements included restoring electrical, water, and sanitary infrastructure; upgrading roads and parking; constructing ADA-accessible pathways; and creating new recreation and community gathering spaces.

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By late 2025, the major improvements were in place and construction was substantially complete.

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Finishing touches were completed in spring 2026. The revitalized Park now features a lake-top pavilion and performing arts space, a wellness pavilion with restrooms and covered seating, a food truck pad and farmers market space, pickleball and sand volleyball courts, bag-toss courts, a youth sand and water play area, ADA-accessible pathways and fishing access, picnic areas, solar lighting, native plantings, interpretive signage, and enhanced safety and security features.

 

On June 13, 2026, Marquette County and its community partners celebrated the completion of the Little Trout Lake Park Revival Project with a grand re-opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony. Hundreds of community members attended and enjoyed live music, a 5K fun run/walk, recreation activities, food, and opportunities to explore the revitalized Park.

Little Trout Lake Park is now open to the public and serves as a vibrant community wellness hub, outdoor gathering space, and trailhead for the Silver Lead Creek Greenway.​