River Access Project Underway at the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park

Posted @ Dec. 20 2011 10:31AM by Gina Peebles - community

The Rainbow River will soon have a dedicated access point as the River Access Project at Blue Run of Dunnellon Park (a/k/a Tuber’s Exit) got underway on Monday, Dec. 5 2011. Cloud 9 Services, Inc. from Orlando mobilized and began laying out the alignment of the ramp system that day and is scheduled to be complete by the end of January, 2012. This project will feature a 12’ wide universally accessible ramp which will provide ingress/egress into the Rainbow River for paddle craft and tubers.

The total cost of this project is $118,400.00 and is fully funded by the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Withlacoochee Basin Board, as a Cooperative Funding Initiative. This is Phase II of construction at the park following the recently completed Stormwater Management Project in partnership with the Office of the County Engineer, who designed the project and managed construction. The third and final phase includes the installation of an information kiosk and other interpretive exhibits which explain the features and habitats included in the 32.44 acre park. All three phases have a goal of protecting the river from stormwater runoff and providing for public education regarding the importance of protecting this unique resource.

For public safety, the river access area will be closed to visitors during construction. Visitors will be able to access all other park areas as the main parking area and the San Jose Blvd. parking area will remain open. Access to the river is available at the Dunnellon boat ramp (US 41 adjacent to City Hall) and at the KP Hole Park (9435 SW 190 Ave. Rd, Dunnellon). The Blue Run of Dunnellon Park is located at 19680 E Pennsylvania Avenue in Dunnellon.

For additional information please contact Jim Couillard at 352-671-8560.