Grand Haven North Pier to Close for 3-Year Rebuild

Noisy construction will force closure of popular lakefront attraction.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 8:01pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a blurred, hazy lakefront scene in muted shades of blue, green, and gold, evoking the tranquil atmosphere of a pier on the water.The impending closure of Grand Haven's beloved North Pier will cast a melancholy shadow over the lakefront this summer.Grand Haven Today

The iconic North Pier in Grand Haven, Michigan will be closed for the next three summers as the city undertakes a major reconstruction project. The $12 million rebuild is necessary to repair and upgrade the aging pier, but will result in significant noise and disruption for visitors to the popular lakefront destination.

Why it matters

The North Pier is a beloved landmark that draws thousands of tourists to Grand Haven each year. Its closure for an extended period will have a major impact on the local economy and tourism industry, as well as inconvenience regular visitors who enjoy walking, fishing, and taking in the views from the pier.

The details

The reconstruction project will involve demolishing and rebuilding the entire 1,000-foot North Pier structure. Work is scheduled to begin in May 2026 and continue through the summer of 2028, forcing the pier to remain closed during the peak tourism seasons. City officials say the project is necessary to address structural issues and add new features like improved lighting and accessibility upgrades.

  • The North Pier reconstruction project will begin in May 2026.
  • The pier will remain closed through the summer of 2028.

The players

Grand Haven

The city in Michigan where the North Pier is located.

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What they’re saying

“We know this is going to be a major inconvenience for residents and visitors, but the pier is in desperate need of these upgrades. Our goal is to get the work done as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

— Jenna Mackenzie, Grand Haven City Manager

What’s next

City officials plan to provide regular updates on the construction progress and any potential delays. A temporary pedestrian walkway may be installed to allow limited access during the rebuild.

The takeaway

The extended closure of the Grand Haven North Pier will be a significant challenge for the local tourism industry, but the necessary renovations will help preserve this iconic lakefront landmark for years to come.