SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER ARTICLE

The new marina is closer than you think.  As you read this the new docks from Sullivan should be arriving.  The Piling Study is complete and the bidding process is underway for the general marine contractor and the various subs.  Dock boxes have been ordered and power pedestals selected.  If all goes well completion will take place late winter in time to be enjoyed next boating season.  Several designs have been received for a new marina office.  The intent is to move the office on land where the little gazebo now sits.  The current designs under review look like a lighthouse with an octagonal shape complete with a beacon light and a red standing seam metal roof.  Incorporation of a walkway around the outside is planned.  It should be quite a focal point for the marina, the first thing visible as you come up the channel.  Expect some turmoil for the boaters as everyone will probably be moved at least once, if not more as construction proceeds.  There will be periods when utilities are minimal to nonexistent.  Plan on no dry dock space at the marina this winter as work will be in progress and docks stored on the adjacent parking surfaces.   The turmoil and wait will be well worth it.  Simultaneously, one of our local Boy Scouts has selected adding more canoe racks as his Eagle Scout Project.

Stafford County work on the development of Government Island continues to progress.  The bridges are in and the elevated walkway complete.  Remaining are the parking lot, paved pathway, trail around the island and display signs.  The goal was to finish in September but it’s looking like late October.

The draft Business Office plans are complete and discussions ongoing on moving forward.  Similarly draft plans are complete for the replacement police station. Discussions are underway with Stafford County on rezoning and site plans.

The upcoming budget cycle is right around the corner and the managers and I are doing surveys of similar operations to ensure our fee structures are fair and in line with the on going rates.  The pumping station work on Aquia Drive is well underway although they have had some issues including those with bedrock.  The major road pipe replacement adjacent to Anchor Cove turned into a real project due to crossing water/sewer lines.  The project necessitated raising the sewer force main 8”.  A thank you to all the patience exhibited by all that were inconvenienced as we had hoped to do the project in a day and that didn’t happen.  We recently learned that a study is underway to rebuild the Route #1 bridge just north of our entrance.  This will be a welcome project as the area floods easily and the road had been closed on occasions.  When details become available they’ll be advertised.   We are currently negotiating/pricing a replacement dump/plow truck and motor grader for Roads and Grounds.  Both are needed before the upcoming snow season. 

A first reminder- the Annual Meeting is scheduled for October 16 at the Harbour Inn.  Mark your calendar.  Two Director positions will be opening.  School is starting and the kids and busses will be about.  Please drive carefully.