Feasibility study maps riverfront options; dredging would be required for motorized boats

Borough engineering presented a Delaware River boating and recreation feasibility study that documents hydrographic conditions and outlines a range of possible waterfront amenities. Kurt, the presenting engineer, said the survey found consistently shallow water near the shoreline and identified a navigable channel several hundred feet from shore. The study describes options ranging from small canoe/kayak launch areas and overlooks to full motorized-boat facilities that would require dredging and removal of riverbed material to achieve depths of roughly 3–4 feet in the immediate area and an identified channel to the main river.

Kurt said the study’s purpose is to provide baseline data and to position the borough competitively for grant programs that fund waterfront amenities. He noted that some projects—such as a motorized-boat wharf like Bristol Borough’s—would carry a “huge price tag” because they require dredging. Less intensive options, such as small docks and pedestrian overlooks, would be cheaper and avoid dredging but provide different recreational opportunities.

Council discussed forming a committee to evaluate options, costs and likely grants. The engineering office said the report will be available to the public on the borough website, and staff encouraged residents and interested council members to help scope next steps.

Next steps: council to consider forming a committee to pursue options and potential grant applications; staff to publish the report on the borough website and make a paper copy available at the library and Burrell Hall.