STURGEON BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – Officials with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources announced on Monday plans to reopen the observation tower at Potawatomi State Park.
In a release, they say that the observation tower was closed back in December 2017 after engineers had found significant wood decay and unsafe conditions.
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The tower has remained closed since then but an emergency stabilization project initiated by Governor Tony Evers in the last biennial budget has allowed the DNR to complete the restoration of the tower.
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. Because of the governor’s leadership and the work of the DNR, DOA, contractors and advocates for the tower, we are now able to ensure the historic character of the tower is preserved for generations to enjoy.
DNR Secretary Karen Hyun
DNR officials state that the observation tower will officially reopen once snow and ice from the winter have cleared enough to allow the public to access it safely.
Minor work is still being done to the tower as well but the tower is expected to be opened around mid to late April, the same time as when it used to open regularly each season.
In addition to the tower reopening, both the DNR and Governor Evers announced an additional project of creating a fully accessible lookout at the Potawatomi State Park that allows a viewing experience to parkgoers of all abilities.
The DNR recognizes the importance of having spaces in our state parks that are accessible for all. 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.
DNR Secretary Karen Hyun
The fully accessible lookout project will use funds from the 2025-27 Capital Development Budget as Hyun stated and will also use funds left over from the observation tower restoration project.
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Any questions regarding the observation tower’s reopening can be directed to the DNR Office of Communications.
