State park and recreation and cultural economic development officials with the Department of Natural Resources and Department of History, Arts and Libraries today announced a public meeting is scheduled for the "Idlewild, Michigan Transformation Initiative" Tuesday, July 22.

The meeting, which is being hosted by Yates Township, will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Idlewild Historic Cultural Center, located at 7025 Broadway Ave. in Idlewild. The cultural center is fully accessible.

The purpose of the meeting is to provide the public with an update on the Idlewild Transformation Initiative, including the blight removal and historic markers, and a final report on the proposed accessible fishing pier, park and access site. Individuals who wish to voice their opinions may register prior to the start of the meeting for the opportunity to speak for up to two minutes during a public comment period following the presentation of the final report. It is requested that all statements be submitted in writing for the permanent record.

More than 60 citizens attended the DNR's open house in June to review the draft design plans for the project proposed at Lake Idlewild.

The Idlewild Transformation Initiative was created last year, bringing together key stakeholders from local, state and federal agencies to assist Yates Township residents in preserving, restoring and developing Idlewild. For additional information, please visit the project's Web site at www.michigan.gov/idlewild or contact Betty Boone at (517) 241-3973.

Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for the meeting should contact Monica Terrell at (517) 335-3034 a minimum of five business days before the meeting. Requests made less than five business days before the event may not be accommodated.