As many of you know, we have been working to create a new kayak launch facility at Dealy Field, which is in direct response to ongoing requests from local kayakers, paddle boarders and other folks who desire more access to the bay and wetlands.
As the plans for this project evolved, we expanded the concept to include an ADA compliant kayak launch, as well as a fishing pier and a passive pier that will have a gazebo with unsurpassed sunset views.
The passive pier will also serve as an ideal location for wildlife viewing as well as a place to simply relax in the shade with a cup of coffee and the morning paper – and I can also envision the occasional marriage proposal taking place there as well.
Additionally, the new site will have kayak storage racks, which will be an added convenience for those who are eager to paddle on the bay.
In short, we feel we have initiated plans for an exciting waterfront recreation space that many, many people will enjoy. Of course, making any new facility on the water’s edge requires planning and coordination with the State’s Department of Environmental Protection – which is a very good thing, because we all want to preserve the integrity and purity of our local ecosystem.
With that in mind, our City Engineer has begun the process of working with the DEP and applying for any permits necessary to make our future Fishing Pier & Kayak Launch a reality.
Early meetings with DEP representatives indicate that we have a strong chance to see our conceptual plans through to fruition; and, if all goes as expected, we hope to have this project completed in late 2019.
Now that I have updated you on the plans for our future bayside fishing and kayak facility, no doubt you are wondering about the project’s overall cost. As you can imagine, an effort such as this can be quite expensive to construct – as anyone who has ever built a dock or pier can attest.
All told, the construction and materials costs for this project are estimated to be approximately $935,605.
Now, before you go into “sticker shock,” allow me to explain the truly wonderful news that comes next:
In August, in an effort to secure funding for this project, our City Engineer made a presentation to the Cape May County Open Space Board that included detailed plans, blueprints and an explanation on how this facility will positively benefit the community.
Following that presentation – and a discussion with County Officials regarding some minor adjustments to our plans – the Open Space Board sent me a letter on September 28, which included the following sentence:
