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MSA presents refined LC Stevens kayak launch design; staff to pursue environmental review and federal/DNR funds
Summary
MSA landscape architect David Patton presented a compressed, ADA-compliant kayak/canoe launch design that staff says reduces cost and preserves shoreline trees; an environmental study with Stantec and grant coordination with HUD, National Park Service and DNR were identified as next steps.
MSA landscape architect David Patton presented revised designs for a kayak and canoe launch at LC Stevens and explained how site refinements reduced the project footprint and lowered estimated costs. Patton said the compressed design preserves more shoreline trees and simplifies permitting: “...any compression in the design should make it easier to get approval. And the biggest benefit of that is we get to lower the budget.”
Staff said federal funding already identified for the water-trail project will be coordinated with Stantec for an environmental study, which staff estimated will take about six months before construction can proceed. Participants discussed primary funding lines and reimbursements: staff referenced an $800,000 federal grant previously discussed for the project area and additional DNR funding in the range of roughly $570,000 to support redevelopment of the lower landing.
Design details presented included using the existing parking area (striping/signage) to meet ADA slope requirements, an 8-foot path width for the ramp approach, stepped 8-inch risers for the launch pads, and a 16-foot-wide dimension at the canoe boarding area to permit safe entry and emergency access. Staff also discussed options for kayak/canoe rental lockers or integrated anchors and potential FEMA and National Park Service funding opportunities for components that support broader river-trail access.
Why it matters: The design advances public access to the river, improves ADA access, and positions the city to use grant funding to build launch infrastructure that could increase recreation, tourism and safety on the river.
What’s next: Staff will complete the Stantec environmental study, meet with DNR to confirm any additional requirements, and refine design documents and cost estimates with MSA for future bidding and use of identified grant funds.
