Jan. 26 – 27, 2005 Commission Meeting Agenda
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 Jan. 26 – 27, 2005 Commission Meeting Transcripts
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Presenter: Tim Hogsett

Commission Agenda Item No. 5
Action
Boat Ramp Funding
January 2005

I. Executive Summary: The Department has recently received two applications for new boat ramp construction requesting $893,080 in matching fund assistance. Funding approval of both projects is recommended.

II. Discussion: The State Boat Ramp Program was authorized in 1975 by the Sixty-fourth Legislature. The program provides funds for the purchase, construction and maintenance of boat ramps, access roads and related improvements. Program funds may also be used for capital improvements to existing state boat ramp sites. The program receives funding from two sources: (1) The Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act, also known as the Wallop-Breaux Program, and (2) The State Game, Fish and Water Safety Fund.

Fifteen percent of the State's annual apportionment from the federal Wallop-Breaux Program must be used to provide public access for motor boating facilities. Construction for new ramps is supported on a 75 percent (state) 25 percent (local) basis.

The Department has recently received two applications for new ramp construction requesting $893,080 in matching fund assistance.

The Village of Surfside Beach is requesting a 75 percent matching share grant in the amount of $500,000 for acquisition of land and construction of a 3-lane boat ramp, parking lot and loading docks, restroom, fish cleaning station, bulkheads, walkways, and signs. The facility is located on the Freeport River Ship Channel adjacent to the Intercoastal Waterway in Surfside Beach, Brazoria County.

The City of Rockwall is requesting $393,080 in 75 percent matching funds to expand an existing single-lane boat ramp and parking area by constructing a second single-lane ramp, courtesy dock, picnic area, landscaping, lighting, walkways, and signs. The facility is located at Highway 66 on Lake Ray Hubbard in Rockwall, Rockwall County.

Both facilities will be operated and maintained by the local government sponsors.

III. Recommendation: Staff recommends the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission adopt the following motion:

"Funding for new construction/renovation projects in the amount of $893,080 is approved for boating access facilities in Brazoria County and Rockwall County."