Pier Expansion at Michigan’s Popular Lake St. Clair

An improved destination for residents and visitors to enjoy Michigan’s Lake St. Clair is complete. The City of St. Clair Shores celebrated the grand reopening of the Blossom Heath Activity Pier in spring 2023. The new pier is about 1,600 feet long and extends 396 feet into the lake from the shoreline – making it the longest pier in the City.

The goal of the project was to provide more amenities for residents and better access to the Nautical Mile business district, while addressing climate resiliency concerns. Additional passive recreational opportunities include fishing areas, improved lake viewing and mooring of commercial boats.

ECT developed the concept, final design and construction documents for all aspects of the project. The design features an elevated boardwalk and raised seawall to address higher lake levels. The rehabilitated new roadway allows for improved drainage and dedicated lanes for non-motorized transportation. The universal design improves accessibility and accommodates visitors of varying mobility.

The updated park amenities include accessible fishing platforms for all ages, multiple picnic areas, seating options for lake viewing and pedestrian lighting for safety – all contained within a modern railing system.  Respite from the sun is now available on the pier with shade structures and canopy trees and other plantings. The overall visual quality of the park was enhanced by burying the overhead utility lines and designing designated parking areas for bikes and scooters. These site improvements complement the newly renovated beach house which has already resulted in increased recreational programming and community events at the park.

The $8 million project was funded by the City’s Tax Increment Finance Authority and general fund.

Design and engineering were completed in June 2021 and construction was completed in Spring of 2023. This work complements ECT’s 20-year relationship with the City of St. Clair Shores, which has included stormwater permitting, green infrastructure design, and site assessment/remediation services.