County seeks public input for proposed Ft. Hamer boat ramp renovations

Public workshop scheduled for Aug. 1 to ask boaters, residents which amenities they favor at the boat ramp

MANATEE COUNTY – Manatee County will host a public workshop to discuss proposed improvements to Fort Hamer Park and boat ramp on Aug. 1 at 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria of Williams Elementary School, 3404 Fort Hamer Road in Parrish.

• The proposed improvements will enhance Fort Hamer Park and the park area surrounding the rowing facility completed in 2010. Proposed improvements include:
• Adding shell parking area on the park side, along with a paved parking area for boat trailers and a turnaround at the end of Fort Hamer Road;
• A new playground;
• Rebuilding an aging boat ramp and docks;
• Adding boat trailer parking by vacating the end of Ft. Hamer Rd. and creating a turnaround and good sized area of boat trailer parking;
• A kayak storage facility for the public;
• A paver block plaza-style area between the rowing building and restroom pavilion;
• Improved storm water and drainage system.

When complete, there will be 74 car spaces, four rowing team trailer spaces and 17 public boat trailer spaces.

“This phase of the work is the design and construction of added parking either paved or shell, to be determined through Public input, and the required storm water treatment areas to accommodate it,” said Project Manager Tom Yarger. “Also, the existing floating dock is to be extended to better accommodate rowing teams.”

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