The South Haven Area Recreation Authority (SHARA) is excited to announce a significant step forward in the acquisition of the Riverwoods property, adjacent to the Kal-Haven Trail and Black River in South Haven Township. This development marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to expand and enhance recreational opportunities for the community.
Late in 2023, discussions were initiated between the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), SHARA, and the South Haven/Van Buren County Convention and Visitors Bureau regarding the future use of the Nichols Covered Bridge and the adjacent Riverwoods site. These discussions led to the SHARA board authorizing the potential purchase of the Riverwoods property in February 2024 and completing all necessary application documents with the DNR under the DNR Land Exchange and Sale program.
Following an extensive review process, the DNR has recently approved the sale of the Riverwoods property to SHARA. The terms of this sale, including options for sale, lease, or lease-purchase, are currently being evaluated by both parties and will be finalized in the coming months. The agreement ensures that the land will be available for public use, properly maintained, and dedicated to outdoor public recreational use in perpetuity.
Ross Stein, SHARA board chair, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled that the DNR is working with SHARA on the sale of the Riverwoods property. The addition of this conveniently located 49-acre site to SHARA's growing recreational assets will provide a great location for recreational features clearly desired by the community."
Tim Novak, State Trails Coordinator with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources in the Parks and Recreation Division, echoed this sentiment. "We are excited to continue our partnership with SHARA through the sale of the Riverwoods property. The DNR is committed to staying engaged and supporting SHARA and the South Haven community as we work towards developing a great recreational park for area residents."
Jennifer Sistrunk, Executive Director at the South Haven/Van Buren County Convention and Visitors Bureau, added, "The Riverwoods property holds immense potential for enhancing our community's recreational offerings. We are proud to have been part of the initial discussions and look forward to supporting SHARA in making this vision a reality for both locals and visitors."
A detailed land use and planning process will take place this fall. Ideas being discussed for the Riverwoods site include pickleball courts, a dog park, mountain biking trails, walking trails, restrooms, a pavilion, and a fishing pier. Additionally, plans include the installation of a portion of the Nichols Bridge on a land-based trail. Funding for the Riverwoods site development is anticipated to come from a combination of grants and private donations.
Further details, including the timing of the transaction, will be announced in the coming months.