The Grand Haven Municipal Marina is undergoing a large reconstruction effort...here is the story:

"A $1 million project by Grand Haven Municipal Marina to replace its fixed docks is under way, and city officials are optimistic it will be completed by May 1." according to the Muskegon Chronicle.

"Crews from Hardman Construction of Ludington have been braving heavy snow and strong winds this week. They have demolished the sidewalk and removed several fixed docks, said Julie Beaton, the city's facilities manager.

The channel water around the marina is not frozen. A barge is expected to go into the water in the next few days, officials said.

"They are clicking right along," Beaton said.

The next step is installing a silt curtain in the river around the dock area prior to dredging to prevent debris getting stirred up and heading downstream.

The construction company has a permit from the state that will allow for 770 cubic yards of dredging around the marina at varying depths.

Hardman submitted the low bid to the city worth $808,657 for construction. The total cost for the first phase of improvements, including engineering studies, is $1 million.

A grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources will pay $500,000; the city picks up the balance.

Once completed, there will be 28 fixed slips made of a composite material. The slips will be longer and wider to accommodate larger vessels. The slips will be 50 to 80 feet long and 30 to 52 feet wide, officials have said.

There are 31 fixed slips there now. Harsh winters have taken their toll on the 35-year-old docks, officials have said.

A new sidewalk for the docks and electric hook-ups will be installed.

The city and construction company are committed to having the project completed by May 1. If that doesn't happen, the company will be charged a $2,000-per-day penalty starting May 15, Beaton said.

The city is taking reservations for the fixed docks starting May 15. The floating docks are available for rent earlier in the season, officials said.

Faced with expenses to improve the facility, the council recently approved premium rates for the 2008 season.

Sandy Katt, the city's community affairs manager, said a 24-foot boat will pay $27 a night, compared to $24 last year. Meanwhile, a 40-foot vessel will pay $48, up from $43.

Katt said the state has encouraged the city to charge higher rates for several years.

The second phase of marina upgrades -- replacing the facility's floating docks -- could happen in 2009. Before that can happen, final approvals are required at the city and state levels.

A $500,000 grant is in play for the second phase as well; the city would be required to match those dollars."