Board approves major lakeshore variance to stabilize City Beach boat ramp using inflatable cofferdam method

The Community Development Board recommended approval of WLV 25‑01, a major variance to allow installation of precast concrete slab panels over a reinforced riprap foundation at the City Beach boat ramp to prevent further erosion and provide safer trailer loading. Staff and the Lakeshore Protection Committee concluded the project meets the major‑variance criteria because the proposed deviation is necessary to stabilize existing public infrastructure and to maintain safe public access. The project includes excavation of approximately 202 cubic yards of lake‑bed material with a net reduction of 72 cubic yards, temporary inflatable cofferdam deployment to create dry construction conditions, driveway resurfacing, embankment reinforcement and replanting of native shoreline vegetation. A floodplain development permit will accompany the work. Brandon Tice of Civil Solutions described the construction approach the board endorsed: the design uses water‑filled inflatable cofferdams that are placed in a horseshoe configuration, dewatered, and then used with a staged filtration and turbidity control system before any water is returned to the lake. “We’re aiming for 0 turbidity,” he told the board; the project also includes weekly monitoring by an environmental testing firm under state dewatering permit requirements and an Army Corps of Engineers 404 permit already secured. The Lakeshore Committee recommended approval on July 9, 2025; staff incorporated committee suggestions, consolidating turbidity and sediment controls into a defined monitoring plan. Board members praised the level of environmental safeguards in the proposed work. The motion to approve passed unanimously; the project will next proceed to City Council for the required final review and permits for construction.