As we get into another year, we like to look back on past success. We completed a lot of waterfront projects in 2018, but a couple stand out. Our two favorite public dock projects are unique because they each have special features that make them a “first” for the state of Indiana.
Because both of these Indiana docks are on public sites, you can go check them out for yourself. They’ll be sure to get a lot of traffic in the years ahead. We’re always honored to help with community dock projects. These two installations are definitely great park additions!
Cicero Kayak Launch on Morse Lake
Deaton’s Waterfront Services had the privilege of working on a new kayak launch located in Cicero, Indiana on Morse Lake in the first half of 2018. Located in Charlie’s Landing inside Red Bridge Park, the kayak launch is now a major focal point and an extremely popular attraction for the area. We celebrated the ribbon cutting on June 20, 2018 with over 300 people in attendance, including politicians and dignitaries from the surrounding area.
Red Bridge Park
697 W Jackson Street
Cicero, IN 46034
This public dock kayak launch was made possible through a grant process guided by Cicero Park Director Charlie Cambre, along with donations from numerous Cicero Park enthusiasts. It’s always nice to involve the community with these park upgrades.
What makes this project unique is that it’s the very first ADA kayak launch in all of Central Indiana. Special features make it safe and convenient for visitors of all abilities. The gangway that leads to the main dock measures 5’ x 32’ and has aluminum railing on both sides of the walkway. The gangway leading to the floating dock portion also has plenty of room for users. Multiple paddlers can now access the launch simultaneously.
With a 15’ x 20’ area and two accessible kayak/canoe launches, this is a new must-see destination for paddling enthusiasts, as well as first-time kayakers and canoers.
Laporte EZ Trail System on Little Calumet River
Our other favorite project of 2018 was an EZ Trail System for Red Mill County Park, located on the Little Calumet River in LaPorte, Indiana. Deaton’s Waterfront Services was hired to connect the Cattail Loop Trail with the Nature Preserve Trail. This new floating walkway is now called the Margaret Buerger Bridge.
Red Mill County Park
0185 South Holmesville Road
LaPorte, IN 46350
This EZ Trail System was also made possible through a grant. LaPorte County Parks Director Jeremy Sobecki worked to guide the application process. The result is something that the entire community can be proud of!
We are especially proud of this public dock project because it’s the very first floating observation walkway in Indiana. The environmentally-friendly structure allows the wetlands water to fluctuate during every season. So even though the water levels are different in the spring/summer to the fall/winter, the walkway will be able to rise and fall without disrupting the habitat.
The floating trail is 80” wide and stretches 240’ in length. Railing was installed on both sides. There are also benches on either side so visitors can stop to enjoy the views.
Got a Floating Dock Question? We Can Help!
Moving forward with a new dock for your public dock, local park, or commercial site can be a big undertaking. But at Deaton’s Waterfront Services, we’re here to simplify the process. From the initial consultation and design stage, right through the installation and until opening day, our team can help make your new dock project a success.
If you’d like to learn more about our process, be sure to send us a message or call our office at (317) 747-4933. We’re always happy to talk through your options, and we work all throughout Indiana and the surrounding states. Let’s talk!