SJRWMD building new recreational facilities at Lake Apopka

PALATKA – The St. Johns River Water Management District is constructing additional public facilities along the McDonald Canal in Lake County to enhance recreational opportunities for residents and visitors within the District's Lake Apopka North Shore property.

A public boat ramp is located on the property at the south end of County Road 448-A. Improvements to the area will make using the boat ramp area more enjoyable for the public. The improvements include:

• Paved parking facilities for up to 20 cars and 22 vehicles with trailers
• A picnic pavilion
• A park area and launch facility that is ADA compliant
• A kayak launch
• Restroom facilities
• Widening and deepening of the McDonald Canal for improved navigational safety

Lake County is partnering with the District on the project and will operate and maintain the new facilities once construction is complete. Lake County also is installing an entrance gate with fencing and signage. Construction is scheduled for completion in summer 2016.

The project is one of several recreational and ecotourism opportunities within the District's Lake Apopka North Shore property. In May, the Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive opened and in 2014, the Lake Apopka Loop Trail was completed, both giving bird lovers, hikers, bikers and other nature enthusiasts a new way to enjoy the area's wildlife and beauty.