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State Officials Respond to Oil Release at Millennium Park
GRAND RAPIDS, MI. (August 28, 2026) — The Kent County Parks Department became aware of an oil release from a historic, previously plugged well located in a body of water east of Maynard Avenue SW within Millennium Park on Friday, Aug. 28 and is working closely with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to address the situation. The lake does not have public access points and does not connect to the area used for beach activities.
“Millennium Park is an important part of our community, and protecting its visitors and natural resources is something we take very seriously,” said Ben Swayze, Kent County Parks Department Director. “Out of an abundance of caution, we are asking people to avoid the affected area and refrain from entering or recreating in the lake at this time. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation as we work through this situation.”
As part of its initial response, EGLE placed a containment boom around the well to help prevent further migration of oil into the water while they continue to determine next steps.
The Kent County Parks Department will continue to coordinate closely with EGLE and monitor the situation and will provide additional information as it becomes available.
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