Mason Celebrates New Management Contract for Winthrop Harbor’s North Point Marina

GURNEE, Ill. – After the news broke in November that Winthrop Harbor’s North Point Marina was without a management contract—jeopardizing its 2026 season—state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, immediately began working with state and local leaders to find a solution and keep the marina open. Today, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced that a new contract has been secured, and the marina will open for the 2026 season under the management of SkipperBud’s, a longtime business at the marina.

“As soon as we found out the marina may close for a year, everyone jumped in to keep that from happening. Not only would the marina’s closure hurt my district’s economy, but it would deprive so many of their cherished summer traditions,” said Mason. “I want to thank the IDNR, the Governor’s Office, the Winthrop Harbor Marina community, and everyone who has expressed their support for the marina. Your commitment to ensuring the North Point Marina will open for the 2026 season means so much to me and my district.”

The North Point Marina is the largest marina on the Great Lakes, and is home to 1,500 boat slips, sandy beaches, scenic hiking trails, and beloved lakeside restaurants. The news of a potential year-long closure came as a shock to many, and Mason dove right in alongside fellow state and local officials to keep the marina up and running. The closure of the marina would result in hundreds of job losses, significant impacts on Winthrop Harbor’s boating and fishing industry, and a decline in Northeast Illinois tourism.

IDNR owns the North Point Marina, and after the previous management company terminated their contract last fall, Mason worked with IDNR and local stakeholders to make sure there was a plan in place for 2026.

“As the weather is starting to warm up, I hope this news brings joy and excitement to my community as we look forward to fun, summer days by the lake. I am excited to see everyone at the marina this summer!”