The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has awarded nearly $200,000 to Lake Springfield Center Park for infrastructure improvements aimed at expanding boating access and enhancing safety, according to a May 26 announcement. State Representative Mike Coffey welcomed the investment, which will fund new amenities designed to make Lake Springfield more accessible for recreational users.
“The Lake Springfield Center Park project will provide additional boating docks and a canoe launch, making it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy the lake,” said Mike Coffey. “This investment will improve safety, increase accessibility, and help more families take advantage of one of our community’s greatest outdoor resources.”
The funding comes from the Illinois Boat Access Area Development Program administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. This program provides grants to local governments for projects that expand and improve public boat and canoe access on lakes and rivers across Illinois.
Planned upgrades at Lake Springfield Center Park include construction of a new walking path connecting the parking lot to a dock, installation of a motorboat dock and canoe launch with 12 boat slips, parking lot enhancements to boost accessibility and safety, as well as additional trailer parking.
Coffey was elected in 2023 as a Republican representative in the Illinois State House for the 95th District after replacing Tim Butler, according to Ballotpedia. The district includes parts of Sangamon County such as portions of Springfield along with areas in Chatham, Rochester, Macon County, and Christian County.
