City Discusses $200,000 Harbor Study and Dredging Alternatives at Town Hall Meeting

During a recent joint meeting of the Plan Commission, Environmental Advisory Board, Advisory Recreation Board, and City Council in Two Rivers, significant discussions centered around the future of the city's harbor and its maintenance. A proposed $200,000 appropriation for a study aimed at evaluating the harbor's maintenance frequency sparked debate among officials, highlighting the potential benefits of extending the time between maintenance activities.

City officials emphasized the importance of conducting a cost-benefit analysis to determine if reducing maintenance frequency could lead to savings for both the city and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The harbor, primarily used for recreational purposes, requires substantial investment for maintenance, and officials noted that without a solid plan and preliminary designs, the city risks missing out on future funding opportunities, especially during economic downturns when federal infrastructure spending may increase.

The meeting also touched on historical aspects of the harbor's design, with references to Colonel Roberts from the Corps of Engineers, who designed the harbor in the 1880s. This historical context underscored the ongoing relevance of the harbor to the community and the need for a viable plan to maintain access.

In addition to the main topic, discussions included the potential for dredging to improve the harbor's functionality and the challenges posed by sediment transport and wave action. Officials are considering applying for state funding to support dredging efforts, although current budget constraints for 2026 pose a challenge.

As the meeting concluded, officials opened the floor for questions, inviting community input on the harbor's future. The discussions reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that Two Rivers' harbor remains a vital resource for residents and visitors alike, while also addressing the financial and environmental implications of its maintenance.