Funding for New MSHP Landing Craft Moves Forward in Washington

A new freight boat could be on the horizon for Mackinac Island State Park if the U.S. Senate approves $250,000 to replace the park's 54-year-old surplus landing craft. The House of Representatives approved the bill just before the July Fourth holiday.

The funds are a part of the of Transportation, Treasury, Housing and Urban Development appropriations legislation.

"This is the first step and a very encouraging sign," said Phil Porter, director of Mackinac State Historic Parks, of the House passage.

Congressman Bart Stupak championed the funding on behalf of the park by contacting Congressman Joe Knollenberg, who is the chair of the appropriations subcommittee on transportation, seeking funds to replace the aging vessel, which is a surplus Navy landing craft built in 1952.

"A new vessel will allow the Mackinac Island State Park Commission to better maintain the park," said Congressman Stupak, whose wife, Laurie, is a member of the Mackinac Island State Park Commission.

Mr. Porter said the current Korean War vintage freight boat is expensive to maintain because of its age.