News Graphic - Conley Publishing Group
THIENSVILLE — The village of Thiensville completed a two-month-long project to upgrade the boat launch in Village Park with a ribbon- cutting ceremony on the evening of Oct. 6.
The improved boat launch is funded by the village and a grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources that covered half of the $306,000 total project cost.
“The boat launch is a simple but effective and aesthetically pleasing upgrade to the park,” said Village President Van Mobley. “A big thanks go out to the taxpayers who funded it, engineers who designed it and construction workers who built it. We will all enjoy it for many years.”
The upgrades include a cove that protects the launching ramp from current in the Milwaukee River. A new kayak launch and boarding pier will serve the growing number of users of kayaks, canoes and paddleboards.
The project includes a variety of environmentally friendly landscaping improvements and stabilization features along the riverbank, which have deteriorated over the years. Several benches also have been added.
Improvements to the parking lot include a designated vehicle/boat trailer ADA parking space. Runoff from the parking lot will be directed into native prairie plantings, significantly reducing contaminants before reaching the river.
The boat launch is the latest improvement in Village Park. Others include the Port Washington State Bank River Stage, which was completed in 2019, as well as a new playground, comfort station and entryway feature.
Future fundraising goals for Village Park Reimagined include a splash pad, an upgrade to the pavilion and ice-skating facilities.