Construction of Caesar Creek Lake marina under way

Published Aug. 31, 2015
Wetland plantings and bank stabilization are part of phase one of the marina construction project.

Wetland plantings and bank stabilization are part of phase one of the marina construction project.

The State of Ohio continues to work with the Army Corps of Engineers Caesar Creek Lake, Waynesville, Ohio, for a new marina complex. The construction has continued throughout the summer, and the contractor has begun installing dockage systems that will provide docks for more than 100 boats when this segment, phase one, is complete.

The lake currently has five boat ramps, but the need for more dockage has been voiced by customers for years, according to Chris Rapenchuk, Caesar Creek Lake Manager. The $8.5 million marina complex was originally included in the master plan to enhance the recreational opportunities but it was never funded. 

Now, the project is moving along. The new Marina phase one should be completed by December 2015. The work involved in phase one includes parking lots, bridges, roadway, fish structures, bank stabilization, wetland planting, renovation of a Youth Fishing Pond, a floating marina store, dockage for 110 to 120 vessels and excavation and installation of utilities. The utilities will also support the facilities under construction and the future facilities and amenities outlined in phase two.

The State of Ohio hopes to develop phase two with private funds in the future, which would add an additional 200 docks to the site with more parking lots. The State is meeting with potential concessioners in late August to develop an operational plan for the site. 

“It’s a collaborative effort that will build our community’s commitment toward our parks and improve the quality of life for generations to come,” said Rapenchuk.