The Department of Natural Resources today announced that Rush Lake Boating Access Site, located in Hartford Township in Van Buren County, will undergo paving improvements and site redevelopment beginning the week of July 20.

It is anticipated that construction activities will necessitate closure of the site Monday through Friday and will last three to four weeks. Only the boat ramp will be available on Saturdays and Sundays. The parking area will be closed at the site during construction.

Upgrades will include asphalt paving, improved vehicular circulation, expanded parking area, barrier-free accessibility and the handling of surface water runoff in an environmentally friendly manner. The improvements will benefit site users by providing a more efficient use of parking space, as well as enhanced accessibility for persons with mobility impairments. Asphalt paving of boating sites saves public dollars in the long run, as most gravel-surfaced sites require continued maintenance, including grading, erosion repair, and regular replenishment of aggregate surfaces.

This project is being funded through the Michigan State Waterways Fund, a restricted fund derived from boat registration fees, and a portion of the Michigan marine fuel tax for construction, operation, and maintenance of recreational boating facilities, harbors and inland waterways.

Double Construction of Martin, Michigan, is the project's general contractor. For additional information or updates on the status of this site, contact Joe Strach, DNR Parks and Recreation Division district planner, at (517) 641-4903, ext. 227.

Selected boating access sites require permits that cost $24 for an annual permit, or $6 for a daily permit, for both residents and nonresidents. Boating access site permits are available at fee sites and online at the Michigan e-Store. For a list of boating access sites requiring a permit, visit the "Boating" section on the DNR's Web site, or visit www.mcgi.state.mi.us/MRBIS for all boating access sites throughout the state.