Sterling Park District gets

NEW MARINA

A project which has taken nearly five years to complete will be ready for operation in April of 1972.

The Sterling Park District Marina will offer the latest accommodations to the area public boating enthusiasts. The facility is equipped with a 50' wide concrete launching ramp capable of making two or more launchings at once with a spacious parking lot for 75 autos and trailers. Parking areas are located adjacent the launching ramp to the west as well as to the south of the Harbor House and picnic area. A main dock which is 100' in length will be equipped with a gasoline pump for marina patrons.

Thirty-two boat slips will be available for rent to the public on either a monthly or seasonal basis. The slips will be located just south of the main dock and will be constructed of wood on styrofoam billets. An earth levy separates the harbor and launching area from the fishing area which is to be stocked by the State of Illinois, Department of Conservation for use next spring. Small boats such as canoes and rowboats will be available on a rental basis for fishing in this area.

The Harbor House measures 40' x 44' and is equipped with a largemeeting room, office and rest room facilities. The meeting room will be equipped with vending machines and other furnishings to accommodate boaters and weekend picnic users. Fishing gear and miscellaneous boating equipment will be sold from the office area which will also serve as a control point for the operations. First aid and telephone service will also be available at the Harbor House.

The center field surrounded by the drive will have picnic and playground equipment making still another recreational outlet for the family. Well water will be available at two points next to the Harbor House.

Park District officials have twenty acres of the 30.86 site seeded and report the early fall seeding is coming along nicely and expect a good stand of grass by the opening next spring.

The project in its entirety was financed through the State of Illinois, Department of Conservation, Boating Act Fund which derives its revenue through boat license registrations state-wide along with motor fuel taxes.

A formal dedication ceremony will be held in April of 1972 prior to the grand opening.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 24 November/December, 1971