MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The State Building Commission gave the final approval Wednesday to build a new Eagle Tower at Peninsula State Park in Door County.
The original tower, built-in 1932, was torn down in 2016 because of its deteriorating condition and safety concerns. The state had budgeted about $2 million for the project, but bids came in at about $3 million.
The larger budget required another vote, which was passed unanimously at the meeting on Wednesday.
The Friends of Peninsula State Park has donated $750,000 to the project. State funds, possible grants, and shifting of funds from other projects will be used to complete the financing.
Plans for the new structure consisting of a 60-foot observation tower with a 1,000-square-foot observation deck at the top and an 850-foot-long ramp with additional observation spots.
The project also includes a new, accessible walkway from the base of the ramp to the picnic and parking area.
Construction could still start this year but that has not been determined yet, according to Missy VanLanduyt, recreation partnership section chief for the DNR.
The tower is expected to be completed next summer.
