Resident Tracy Lines urges Algonac to fix riverfront boardwalk after son's injury

Tracy Lines, a resident who addressed the city council during public comment on Aug. 4, said her 12‑year‑old son, Carson, “stepped down a protruding nail… and sliced the bottom of his foot open very bad,” and asked the council to act to prevent future injuries. Lines told the council she submitted a letter to Rocky Gillis and Artie Bryson and asked the city to “please address the condition of the boardwalk before someone suffers an even more serious injury.”

City Manager Artie Bryson responded during the manager’s report that the city put $50,000 in the budget to begin repairs and that staff are waiting for one more quote before starting work. Bryson said staff plan to “start that project right at the boat ramp because that is the worst part of the boardwalk” and estimated crews would begin in about two to three weeks. He also described hiring a part‑time temporary laborer who will help check parks and the boardwalk while repairs are scheduled.

Council members and staff discussed short‑term steps during the meeting, including adding signage to restrict heavy devices (e‑bikes and golf carts) and increasing inspections while the repair contract is finalized. One council member suggested weekly checks and using screws rather than nails in the rebuilt sections; staff agreed to follow up and to pursue the pending quote and additional structural evaluation before full replacement.

The council did not take a separate formal vote on an immediate emergency repair at the meeting; the boardwalk repair work was discussed as part of the manager’s report and budget planning. The city scheduled a follow up through normal procurement and capital‑project processes; staff said they will report back with quotes and timing.