Lancaster County board approves Carter Cove park marine improvements including ADA kayak launch
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Summary
The board approved a multi-element marine project for Carter Cove — a new public boat ramp, courtesy pier, ADA floating kayak launch and shoreline stabilization — after staff and the applicant resolved an earlier objection and VIMS/staff inspections supported the proposal.
The Lancaster County wetlands board approved permits for marine improvements at Carter Cove that county staff and the project engineer said will expand public access and restore/enhance shoreline wetlands.
Ben Burton, senior engineer at Bay Design Group, described plans for the county park that include repairing an existing pier, building a 16-by-60-foot concrete boat ramp, a 6-by-67-foot courtesy pier, an 18-by-20-foot ADA floating kayak launch connected by a 4-by-30-foot gangway, and related shoreline measures including two riprap revetments totaling 3,366 square feet and 612 linear feet of beach nourishment.
Bruce Julian, speaking for county interests, told the board the park has been in planning for about five years and will expand recreational and educational opportunities, including an Oyster Heritage Learning Center and partnership activities with Friends of the Rappahannock.
Staff read the permit notice and said an objection from an adjacent property owner, Gerald Abbott, had been resolved after the agent adjusted the kayak-launch location to accommodate marina operations. Staff reported a positive site visit and recommended approval.
With no remaining objections on the record, the board closed the public hearing, moved and seconded the motion to approve the Carter Cove permits, and the chair called, “All in favor.” The motion passed.
Next steps: Staff will proceed with permit issuance and coordination for construction consistent with the approved plans and any mitigation or access conditions contained in the permit documents.
