The observation tower at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center, 301 Peninsula Drive, is 75 feet tall.
DANA MASSING/ERIE TIMES-NEWS
USA TODAY Network, Reuters
If you’re interested in the future of Presque Isle State Park, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center and Erie Bluffs State Park, you can learn about a plan for all three.
The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is holding a public meeting to share information and solicit feedback as it updates the master plan for the Presque Isle State Park Complex, which includes the two state parks and the Ridge Center, all in Erie County.
“The Presque Isle Complex is one of the most beautiful, unique places in our system, and we are excited to plan for its future,” State Parks Director John Hallas said in a news release.
What is the master plan?
Presque Isle is a state park on a 3,200-acre peninsula with a Lake Erie coastline, an ecologically diverse population of plants and animals and recreational activities including swimming, boating, fishing, hiking and bicycling. The 65,000-square foot Ridge Center in Millcreek Township is an educational and research facility with an observation tower and public displays.
Erie Bluffs is a 587-acre state park in Girard and Springfield townships known for forested wetlands, hiking trails, Elk Creek and 90-foot bluffs overlooking Lake Erie.
The master plan will serve as a roadmap for all three over the next 25 years, ensuring a balance of natural resource protection and recreational opportunities. DCNR uses the plan to evaluate current facilities, identify future needs and recommend improvements, according to the news release.
How can I attend the public meeting?
The meeting will be Oct. 28 at 6 p.m. at the Ridge Center, 301 Peninsula Drive.
DCNR staff will provide an update to the plan process including a summary of existing conditions, public input, findings and priorities, and an introduction to potential improvements.
Dana Massing can be reached at dmassing@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Feedback sought for Presque Isle, Erie Bluffs, Ridge Center future
Reporting by Dana Massing, Erie Times-News / Erie Times-News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Erie Bluffs State Park, 11122 West Lake Road, is located in Girard and Springfield townships in Erie County. The park features a mile of Lake Erie shoreline, 90-foot bluffs, hiking trails and access to Elk Creek. PROVIDED BY PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTM USA TODAY Network, Reuters
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This story was originally published October 25, 2026 at 4:59 AM.