The new boat launch in Dogwood Park is nearly ready to go.
Work began at the site last week and the ramp was being installed as The Free Press went to print Tuesday evening.
The City of Fernie received the permit for the new boat launch from the Ministry of Environment (MOE) Monday morning last week, and work began almost immediately to replace the old ramp that dates back to 1995.
“The original ramp was put in 18 years ago when the new bridges went in over the Elk River,” said Terry Nelson, Senior Engineering Technologist for the City of Fernie.
“The old bridge concrete was used to make it, and it was a 20 per cent slope.
“This new one is properly engineered at a 14 per cent slope.”
The whole project, including landscaping trail alignment, signage and benches, is budgeted at $60,000.
There will also be a four-bay created so boats can wait their turn by the ramp.
“Before, boats would have to wait the other side of the river then rush over when the ramp was free,” said Nelson.