Marshall Park Boat Launch Improvements

Parks is proposing several improvements and repairs to the boat launch at Marshall Park in 2027.

The original boat launch ramps were installed in 1986 and have successfully served boaters for over 40 years.  The concrete ramps are now starting to crack and deteriorate.    The proposed project would replace the concrete ramps in their current arrangement.

A recent survey of the lagoon and channel to Lake Mendota showed significant sediment deposition since the last dredging in 2015. During low water levels boaters are having trouble accessing the lake.  The proposed project would dredge lake sediment to the 2015 elevations in the channel and extend to the boat launch ramps. Lake sediment removed during dredging would be used to partially fill the old ice rink basins at Garner Park and create additional usable field space.

There exist several piers along the park shoreline.  Parks Division is working with stakeholders and permitting agencies to evaluate the current piers and work towards the best possible arrangement for users.

Currently the project is in the permitting and evaluation phase.  It is anticipated that Parks will reach out to stakeholders and host a public informational meeting on the project in fall 2026.

Construction would likely occur in spring 2027.  It likely the launch will be closed for a portion of the 2027 boating season.  Users are encouraged to plan alternate arrangements during this time.