The University will create public access to the lake for education/recreational purposes as part of the stabilization project. The top surface of the bluff will be lowered (excavated) in selected areas to allow improved vistas to Lake Michigan. The project is comprised of the following elements: placing armor revetment stone along the shore to prevent further erosion of the toe of the bluff; placement of revetment to allow for the creation of a sand beach area; creation of coastal wetlands and perched wetland areas along the shore; grading of the bluff face to a stable incline; construction of a pedestrian switchback path from the top of the bluff to the beach; creation of a narrow paved access road for handicapped accessibility, emergency and service vehicle access; and replanting the bluff face with indigenous plant materials.
A small Interpretive Center and toilet facility will be constructed near the top of the bluff and South of the Peace Center. The University is currently working with a J.J.R., Incorporated in developing the bluff plan in conjunction with the overall Campus Master Plan.
The property South of Highland Road (approx. 40 acres) will be purchased as part of the bluff stabilization project. The property will accommodate relocation of earth removed during the bluff grading and will be prepared for future athletic fields.
The main campus loop road will be reconfigured along the top of the bluff from the south campus entry point extending north to the Peace Center. A new drop-off loop road will be constructed at the administrative entrance.
Two new surface parking lots will be constructed. One parking lot will be constructed near the location of the existing eastern parking lot with 320 parking stalls. The second parking lot will be constructed as an addition to the existing 70 stall parking lot south of Wittenberg Hall with an additional 320 parking stalls. This second parking lot will be constructed before the demolition of the bluff to replace the existing parking lost to the bluff improvements.
