Warner's Bayou Closure, Renovations Postponed

Manatee County officials have decided to postpone until at least Labor Day, 2012 the proposed repairs and improvements to Warner’s Bayou boat ramp.

The ramp was scheduled to be closed for repair and upgrades on Monday, but many residents near the popular boat launch asked to have more input in the plan before crews begin work. Several County staffers met with concerned residents at the launch on the evening of March 21st to clarify the proposed improvements and to ask for their feedback for the park.

Most of the 100+ people at last night’s discussion favored only the proposed boat ramp improvements and were not in favor of other proposed land-side improvements such as paved parking and storm water runoff areas, pavilions and the new restrooms.

Manatee County will host a public workshop at 6:30 pm on Thursday, April 19th at the Palma Sola Elementary School cafeteria, 6806 5th Ave NW, Bradenton to ask Warner’s Bayou-area residents and local boaters exactly what they want to see at the launch.

Staff also tried to clear up some of the confusion over the proposed improvements by telling residents there are no plans for vendors at the site and there will not be 24-hour access to a proposed new restroom. At last night’s meeting, County staff passed out color renderings of and fact sheets on the proposed improvements.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit online at www.MyManatee.org or call (941) 748-4501.