DNR Extending Public Comment Period On Master Plan Variance To Add Facilities To Newport State Park Day Use Area

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is extending the public comment period for a master plan variance that would authorize the development of new facilities within an existing day-use area in Newport State Park.

The new deadline for public comment is Dec. 4, 2024 to provide additional time for the public to review the draft variance and provide input.

As described in Chapter NR 44 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code, a master plan variance is a change in the use or management of an area that is consistent with the area’s land management classification and objectives.

In the existing Northern Lake Michigan Coastal Regional Master Plan, the day-use area subject to the variance is designated as a Recreation Management Area. This area has an objective to “provide and maintain attractive and safe grounds for intensive outdoor recreation activities.”

The proposed variance to the existing plan, which was approved by the Natural Resources Board in 2018, proposes the construction of a new 100-seat amphitheater along with other improvements that would provide new and expanded recreation opportunities within the modern-day use area near Parking Lot 3, on the eastern side of Newport State Park along Newport Bay.

Preliminary concepts for the proposed changes to the day-use area include elements to improve the site’s safety and accessibility for all park users, enhance the quality of existing educational uses and align with the site’s existing character.

Located near the tip of Door County Peninsula, Newport State Park is known for its great natural scenic beauty and wild character. The park offers excellent opportunities for night-sky viewing and interpretive programming and is an International Dark Sky Park.

The public can review the draft variance by visiting the DNR’s Northern Lake Michigan Coastal Regional Master Plan webpage.

The public is encouraged to submit comments regarding the proposed variance to the Northern Lake Michigan Coastal Regional Master Plan. Submit comments by Dec. 4, 2024 to:

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
C/O René Buys, DNR Property Planner
101 S. Webster St.
PO Box 7921
Madison, WI 53707
ReneJ.Buys@wisconsin.gov or 608-982-1688

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.