New boat launch in Hoquiam

The City of Hoquiam performed a ribbon cutting cermony on Monday May 9 to open Hoquiam's new 9th and Levee Street Publice Boat Launch and Moorage Floats.

The project included replacing a former private gravel boat launch with an all new concrete ramp, boarding float and 189 feet of moorage space located along the Hoquiam River behind Swanson's Grocery store, adjacent to the law offices of Parker and Winkelman.

"This incredible addition to the Hoquiam waterfront and expanding recreational use along the Hoquiam River was identified as a top priority of our citizens in the Hometown Hoquiam Plan, the Waterfront Re-Development Plan and the Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Plan."

Over $650,000 in Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office grants were obtained allowing the City to purchase the property, design, permit and construct the facility. Other partners include the Grays Harbor Community Foundation contributing $10,000 and the Friends of Grays Harbor who donated $1,000 towards this project.

Berglund Schmidt & Associates, Inc. of Hoquiam led the dxesign, permitting and inspectio9n management, while Quigg Brothers Inc. from Aberdeen constructed the facility. It truly was a team effort led by local professionals to complete this signigicant public facility.

"Boating, fishin and outdoor recreation is so important to the people who call Grays Harbor home," said City Administrator Brian Shay. "In addition to improving our own quality of life, we hope that the new boat launch and moorage will add to the local economy as boaters stay in our local motels, purchase supplies in our local stores and eat at our local establishments."