New Melones Marina Changes
New Melones Lake, CA — A possible move and expansion is being considered for the marina. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has released the Draft Environmental Assessment for the New Melones Lake Concession Development and they want to hear from the public. The nearly $7.6 million proposal would move the marina from the Glory hole Recreation Area to the Black Bart Day Use Area.
Bureau Spokesperson Pete Lucero stresses one reason for the move, “Where the houseboats are moored near that cove the wind just whips through there and actually will break the mooring and houseboats have been known to be damaged in that area.”
The plans also call for expanding the concessions area to include a restaurant and more lodging. Currently, Shasta Lake Resort is contracted to run the marina through December of 2014. The company rents out houseboats, kayaks and paddle boards. It also operates the marina convenience store. The Bureau plans to award a new 25 to 30 year long term concession contract within the next two years. That is why they want feedback from the public on the draft so they can get a guide of what types of services, facilities and recreations are needed or wanted.
Lucero says, “It’s really a win win situation for everyone. The improvements will bring in more visitors and there is generally a financial impact or boost to the areas economy.”
The Bureau is holding a Public Open House meeting:
Tuesday, July 30
5:30-7:30 p.m.
New Melones Lake Visitor Center
6850 Studhorse Flat Road, Sonora
They are also accepting public comment on the draft until August 16th. They can be mailed to:
Patti Clinton,
Central California Area Office,
7794 Folsom Dam Road,
Folsom, CA 95630
(Or emailed to PClinton@usbr.gov.)
Click here to view the Draft Environmental Assessment.
