Milwaukie Boat Ramp: Open For Business Or Closed?

The Milwaukie boat ramp is located in Milwaukie Bay Park, which is a scenic park near downtown Milwaukie along the Willamette River. The boat ramp has been the subject of much discussion and speculation among local anglers and fishing enthusiasts, with many expressing concerns about its design, functionality, and accessibility. The boat ramp was closed for a period in 2014 to facilitate construction and improvements as part of the Milwaukie Riverfront Park development project. As of 2017, the boat ramp was reported to be open and usable, although some issues with parking and dock damage were noted.

The Milwaukie boat ramp was open to the public in 2015, but with limited parking

The Milwaukie boat ramp, located in Milwaukie Bay Park, was open to the public in 2015, but with limited parking. The boat ramp is situated along the Willamette River, just off McLoughlin Boulevard, and offers scenic views of the river and surrounding natural areas. While the exact number of parking spaces available in 2015 is unclear, one source from January 2015 mentions only 14 parking spaces for boat trailers, with the potential for 6 more in the water treatment factory. Another source mentions a lack of parking spots available in 2017, indicating that the parking situation may have been an ongoing issue.

The boat ramp and park have undergone several construction and improvement projects over the years. Phase II of the Milwaukie Riverfront Park construction, which included replacing the boat ramp with a one-lane ramp, began in June 2014 and was completed in May 2015. This phase also included installing a boarding float, modifying vehicle access, adding restrooms, and improving parking for both cars and boat trailers. The total cost of this project was $2.2 million, funded by various partners, including the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, and the City of Milwaukie.

Despite the improvements, some users have expressed frustration with the design and functionality of the boat ramp and parking area. Criticisms include the limited number of parking spaces, particularly for larger vehicles and boat trailers, and the frequent debris and damage to the dock due to its location in the path of winter debris. There have also been reports of the boat ramp being closed at certain times due to issues with the crossing over Kellogg Creek and funding issues for repairs.

The Milwaukie Bay Park continues to be a popular destination for boaters and anglers, offering convenient access to the river and natural areas nearby. However, the limited parking situation has been a persistent challenge, and users are encouraged to plan accordingly when visiting the park and boat ramp.

The boat ramp was closed for construction in 2014

The boat ramp at Milwaukie Bay Park was closed for construction in 2014 as part of a project to improve the park's amenities and recreational opportunities. The construction was part of the second phase of the Milwaukie Riverfront Park development, which aimed to enhance the park's boat launch facilities and create a more appealing and functional space for visitors.

The boat ramp closure was necessary to replace the existing ramp with a new one-lane ramp, install a boarding float for pedestrian use and temporary boat tie-ups, modify vehicle access to the park, and improve parking for both boat trailers and cars. These enhancements were designed to make the boat launch area safer and more efficient for boaters and pedestrians alike.

In addition to the boat ramp improvements, the second phase of construction at Milwaukie Riverfront Park included the installation of a small restroom, riverside pathways, and plantings. The project also involved re-grading the center portion of the park and relocating power poles. These comprehensive improvements were made with the goal of creating a more attractive and user-friendly space for visitors to enjoy.

The funding for this project came from various sources, including the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, the Oregon Marine Board, Clackamas County, the Kellogg Good Neighbor Committee, and the City of Milwaukie. The total cost of the project was estimated to be $2.2 million, showcasing the significant investment and commitment to enhancing the park's amenities and accessibility.

The dock at the boat ramp is short and prone to damage

The Milwaukie boat ramp is open, but the dock is incredibly short. The ramp has been replaced with a one-lane ramp, and the dock has been severely damaged, with about one-third of it disappearing over the winter. The dock pilings are also leaning over quite far, and this is due to incompetent design and placement. The dock was installed directly in the path of massive winter debris, and so the damage was inevitable.

The Milwaukie Bay Park boat dock is prone to damage from debris, which is why a portion of it is removed each year for winter storage. The boat ramp and dock are part of the park's Phase II elements, which were constructed between June 2014 and May 2015. The project cost $2.2 million and was funded by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, the Oregon Marine Board, Clackamas County, the Kellogg Good Neighbor Committee, and the City of Milwaukie.

The park is located on an 8.5-acre site nestled between the Willamette River, Kellogg Creek, Johnson Creek, and McLoughlin Boulevard. It features a lawn area, walking paths, a restroom, natural areas, water access, and views of the river. The boat ramp and dock provide access to the river for boating and fishing.

The short dock at the boat ramp can cause issues when prepping to launch a boat, as it can block traffic. The dock is also covered in goose poop, which can be unpleasant and unsanitary for visitors. The damage to the dock and the limited space can make it challenging to use the boat ramp, and it is a step back from the previous ramp in terms of functionality and accessibility.

The boat ramp is located in Milwaukie Bay Park, which is 8.5 acres

The boat ramp is a one-lane ramp, with a boarding float for pedestrian use and temporary boat tie-ups. There is a small restroom and parking for boat trailers and cars. The park also features a lawn area, walking paths, natural areas, water access, and views of the river.

The boat ramp and dock have received mixed reviews. Some users have reported issues with the design and damage, while others have found it usable. There are also limited parking spots for boat trailers, with only 14 spaces available at the time of the ramp's opening.

The Milwaukie Bay Park Project is still ongoing, with plans to add new amenities and recreational opportunities, including a children's play area, water feature, art and social gathering areas, and an amphitheater. These improvements are part of the final design updates by the North Clackamas Parks and Recreation District and the City of Milwaukie.

The park features a lawn area, walking paths, a restroom, natural areas, and water access

Milwaukie Bay Park is a scenic park near downtown Milwaukie, along the Willamette River. The park offers a variety of amenities and natural features for visitors to enjoy.

One notable feature of the park is the lawn area, which provides a spacious and green open space for relaxation and recreational activities. This lawn area, known as the festival lawn, serves as a versatile venue for community events and gatherings.

In addition to the lawn, Milwaukie Bay Park also boasts a network of walking paths that meander through the park. These paths offer a great way to explore the park's natural areas and take in the beautiful surroundings. The paths are also suitable for biking, providing a convenient and scenic route for cyclists.

For those seeking a quiet respite, the park includes a restroom facility, ensuring visitor comfort and convenience. This addition is particularly useful for those spending a full day at the park or engaging in water activities.

Speaking of water activities, the park provides easy water access, allowing visitors to enjoy various water-based pursuits. The boat ramp and dock facilitate boating and fishing, while the nearby creeks and river offer additional exploration opportunities.

The natural areas within the park are another highlight, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. These natural spaces showcase the local flora and fauna, offering a tranquil environment for visitors to connect with nature.

Milwaukie Bay Park truly offers something for everyone, from those seeking outdoor adventures to those looking for a quiet place to relax. With its beautiful scenery, convenient amenities, and easy access to nature, the park serves as a beloved recreational space for the community.

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