By Margie Plunkett
Lantana’s plan to build two docks to provide staging for the boat launch at Sportsman’s Park will cost about $224,000, part of $300,000 county funds earmarked for the project.
Council approved the design presented by Kimley-Horn & Associates Feb. 22, which consists of a two-dock structure built with timber decking and concrete piles.
“The goal of the project is to provide slips to reduce the congestion and to provide day slips to let boaters come and enjoy the shops and restaurants,” said Kevin Schanen of Kimley-Horn.
The eastern pier is primarily for staging, and a breakwater underneath it is designed to quell waves, he said. The other provides four slips for boats to dock for the day.
The timber decking raised concern from Councilmember Elizabeth Tennyson, who pointed out the hazards of splinters and maintenance costs – and well as replacement costs if the materials are washed away in the storm.
A more expensive material is available that would extend the life of the docks, Town Manager Mike Bornstein pointed out. Mayor David Stewart noted that Council’s approval was only for the initial design, that Kimberly Horn would return many times as the project progresses and Council would have the opportunity to change materials used.
Public comment on the dock noted the project could benefit from making the space for the entrance ramp wider to facilitate navigation into and out of the ramp. Environmental concerns raised included whether the pressure treated wood would leach into the Intracoastal Waterway.
The county granted Lantana the funds for Sportsman’s Park from $300,000 that was unused from another project. The cost of the staging docks also includes a 24 percent contingency, according to Kimley-Horn.
Comments