DESCRIPTION
The Ballinger Regional Park and Water Access project completed the design and installation of: a fishing pier, floating dock, boat launch improvements, ADA restrooms, riparian shoreline restoration as well as construction of pathways and a 1550 ft. long trail to the Mickey Corso Clubhouse/MLT Senior Center. The installation of these amenities adds significant value and experiences to park goers. The 220-foot long fishing pier provides water access for several anglers to reach new areas of the lake, while also creating separation from boat launching activities. The boat launch improvements replaced old concrete panels and a stationary dock with a solid concrete boat ramp and floating dock. These dock improvements allow for fluctuation in lake water levels and easier access in and out of watercraft. The installation of the ADA restrooms increased the number of gender neutral stalls/facilities and provides an outdoor washing station. The beach and riparian areas along the waterfront now have designated separation, with riparian habitat protected with fencing barriers. Existing tire rip rap was removed along the shoreline and replaced with new erosion control methods, benefiting riparian and ecological habitat. The 1550 ft. long ADA paved trail from the Micky Corso Clubhouse, provides improved access to the beachfront from the Clubhouse parking lot. During busy summer months this new paved connection allows users to seek additional parking at the Clubhouse and have easy walkable access to the beachfront. The new amenities installed as a part of this project provide new and improved opportunities for public access to water for various water focused activities.