WILLAMSBURG -- A two-week construction project at the state boat launch on Lake Skegemog could result in some congestion -- but also thousands in public revenue -- as boaters head to Whitewater Township Park.
The township stands to gain at least $1,000 a week in boat-launch fees as the state Department of Natural Resources diverts hundreds of boaters to the township park while workers construct a new ramp at the Baggs Road access site on Lake Skegemog.
The roughly $10,000 project was prompted by several complaints about the launch. Work is expected to continue through July 25, said Craig Gulseth, DNR parks and recreation manager.
"People would be launching and their trailer tires would fall into something," Gulseth said, adding that at least 200 people a week use the free launch site.
"We have been attempting to do this for a couple of years now. This is the first opportunity we have had to get in there," he said.
Work started Monday to replace the ramp with new concrete, dredge the boat launch area and install a new skid pier. Signs posted at the site two weeks ago direct boaters to the township park, roughly nine miles to the north, DNR officials said.
The township boat launch, located off Park Street along Elk Lake's west shore, has a daily $5 launch fee or $40 for an annual pass.
The project, scheduled between the area's two biggest boating days that include July 4 and Elk Rapids' Harbor Days, potentially could double traffic at the township park that includes a large campground.
But township Parks and Recreation Administrator Carol Hockin said the influx shouldn't be a big issue.
"It could get busy," said Hockin, also the township clerk. "What we do is when we have a lot of boats if there is not room in the parking lot they will park along side ... Park Road."
Park Road resident David Bosner said the added traffic could compound existing problems during the busy summer season.
"There (are) people speeding up and down the road," he said. "They drive too fast."
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