Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Beach Boat Launch topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council reviews beach and Westlake Drive designs and questions whether to add a new boat launch
Summary
City engineers told the council that Westlake Drive design is largely complete and the beach project has moved toward bid-ready plans; the DNR offered concrete planking that reduced the boat-launch estimate to "just a little over $100,000," but councilors debated winter access, safety and loss of green space.
City Engineer John Pratt told the Detroit Lakes City Council that the Westlake Drive roadway and trail design is largely complete and that the beach project has been refined from concept to a near–bid-ready design.
On the boat-launch question, Pratt said the Department of Natural Resources has agreed to provide concrete planking that cut a previously discussed rough $300,000 estimate to “just a little over $100,000.” He told the council the design team had also focused on sidewalk alignments and ADA compliance to minimize stairs and the need for railings.
Council discussion ranged from safety and winter access to the effect on green space. One councilor warned removing the existing access would hurt the Legion Campground and winter visitors; another said the new northshore launch may not yet be well-known to boaters and that keeping the existing access could be appropriate. Members asked staff to study winter-access alternatives before deciding whether to add a new boat launch or preserve more public beach.
Pratt also reported that a private property owner has offered to privately fund improvements within his easement area at the beach; any such work would be privately paid and could be coordinated with the city project. Staff emphasized the beach plan aims to limit clutter and preserve public benefit while meeting ADA and environmental requirements.
Council took feedback but made no final decision on the boat launch; staff said they will return with additional information and options. The Westlake Drive roadway work will continue through MnDOT review and cooperation with Becker County.
