County may take ownership of lighthouse from U.S. Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard had planned on transferring the Fort Gratiot Light Station to the city of Port Huron, Michigan, but the city declined the offer because it could not afford the estimated $3.83 million it would cost to restore the station. St. Clair County may step in to take ownership of the lighthouse and six other buildings at the light station.
The lighthouse was built 180 years ago, and it was closed last year because it is literally falling apart, bricks peeling away from the façade. The other buildings – including the 1932 Coast Guard station and the 135-year-old light keeper’s duplex – are contaminated with asbestos and lead paint.
The St. Clair County Parks and Recreation Commission has the experience and the funding available to take control of the historic property. Port Huron has agreed to partner with the county, matching a $370,000 federal grant.
For the full story, go to The Times Herald.
