PC: Fox 11 Online
STURGEON BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A Door County observation tower will reopen to the public for the first time since 2017.
The Wisconsin DNR announced Monday the observation tower at Potawatomi State Park in Sturgeon Bay will reopen this spring as weather conditions allow.
The 75-foot tower, built in 1931, was closed in December 2017 after engineers found significant wood decay and unsafe conditions. The tower has since remained closed.
The funding for the restoration project was approved in the last biennial budget.
“After intensive restoration work being completed and having passed the necessary structural inspections, we are ready to reopen the historic and iconic observation tower at Potawatomi State Park,” said DNR Secretary Karen Hyun.
Minor site work is still being completed around the tower. This work is expected to be finished prior to the tower’s opening, expected in mid to late April, when in previous years the snow and ice has sufficiently cleared.
In addition to the tower reopening, Gov. Evers and the DNR announced the inclusion of an additional project at Potawatomi State Park in the Capital Development Budget to create a fully accessible lookout that will provide a viewing experience to park users of all abilities. The project will reappropriate remaining dollars from the observation tower restoration, along with new dollars to fund the project.
“The DNR recognizes the importance of having spaces in our state parks that are accessible for all,” said Hyun. “The governor’s 2025-27 Capital Development Budget proposal to fund an accessible lookout at Potawatomi State Park ensures those who cannot or may not want to climb the tower can also enjoy the amazing views this incredible state park has to offer.”
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