Project would make Ocqueoc Falls handicap accessible

Proposed improvements to the Ocqueoc Falls Recreation area, which would include better handicap accessibility and improvements to the parking lot, are in the preliminary planning stages. Representatives from the Department of Natural Resources took part in an onsite visit with landscape architects April 18 for a pre-bid meeting. The project would include construction of a deck at the falls area to improve access to the water?s edge, the widening and paving of the parking lot, improvement of services for RV travelers, along with other upgrades to the area.

ACCORDING TO DNR public information officer Mary Dettloff, who works in Lansing, but grew up in Rogers City and is familiar with the falls, if the project ever does move forward toward construction the DNR will ?protect the natural beauty of the site.? Forest fire officer supervisor Joe Socrainte of the Atlanta field office, who took part in the onsite visit, said ?we don?t want to lose that rustic appeal.? Money may be a bigger stumbling block, though. Dettloff said the project is strictly a proposal, and that the DNR does not have much money available because of budget constraints. Other sources of funding will have to be sought through grants or donations to bring the projection to fruition. One possible grant is the Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant, but the latest deadline has come and gone. ?This is probably several years away,? she said.

THE BARRIER-FREE overlook would be one of sever

al improvements to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Six picnic areas also would be made accessible to people with disabilities. To accommodate the steady traffic during the summer at the recreation destination, the parking lot would be expanded and paved. The vault toilets adjacent to the parking lot would be relocated to an undetermined location. There also would be improved services for RV travelers such as access to electrical hook ups and an area for the disposal of waste. Some hills near the falls would need grading to eliminate erosion problems and are included in the early plans.

While there had been some discussion about possibly providing a paved trail, DNR officials are not considering any such plans. Ocqueoc Falls is one of the most visited sites in Presque Isle County, but the wooden area with a six-mile trail loop for hikers and walkers is also enjoyed in the winter by cross country enthusiasts. During some of the hottest days of summer, the falls is one of the most popular swimming holes anywhere.