Nathan Benderson Park boat ramp closes during dredging | News

Sarasota, Florida -- The lake at Nathan Benderson Park, known to many as one of the premier rowing destinations in North America, has been closed for dredging beginning today, July 12 until the 19th.

The County says it's continuing to dredge key portions of the lake so it can meet the minimum standards for international rowing competitions. During the dredging, the boat ramp will be closed to the public.

Over 500,000 cubic yards of materials have been placed to start the creation of "Regatta Island," the new home of Nathan Benderson Park operations. Dredging operations will begin on the north end of the lake and continue to the south end along the west shoreline.

The dredging is expected to be completed in November, and will provide an additional minimum of 250,000 cubic yards of material for the island.

The boat ramp is scheduled to reopen on July 20. A construction area will be marked off around the dredging area and all boaters must remain clear. Access to the remainder of the lake, as well as shore fishing, will remain open to the public.

For more information, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000, or visit www.scgov.net.