The Tennessee Avenue Boat Ramp in Ocean City provides boaters and water sports enthusiasts with a fantastic location to access the beautiful back bays, all at an affordable price. However, city officials have acknowledged that the docks at this city-owned site are weather-beaten and narrow, and the ramps are in need of improvement to enhance safety and functionality.
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During the City Council meeting on July 6, it was authorized to initiate the bidding process for the improvement of the facility, along with bulkhead work. The officials believe that this project will completely transform the Tennessee Avenue Boat Ramp. According to the information provided by the city, the boat slips will be made longer, and new ramp structures will be constructed. The project will also involve reconfiguration and construction of a new boat ramp, as well as the creation of associated piers, ramp structures, and docks. These upgrades aim to benefit both the city's residents and visitors, and they are crucial in bringing the facility into compliance with ADA regulations.
The current configuration of the boat ramp poses potential dangers to boaters, as it is not long enough for optimal use. Matt Roselle, an Ocean City resident, and his girlfriend, Heather Murray, are avid water sports enthusiasts who frequently use the public facility. On a Saturday afternoon, they were preparing to take their jet ski out on the water. Additionally, Roselle utilizes the boat ramp to launch his 18-foot boat. He appreciates the convenience and cost-effectiveness of the facility, especially compared to the marina. However, he points out that there are some improvements needed, particularly during low tide when it can be challenging to navigate the ramp. Wider slips for easier access and a solution for deteriorating docks and crowded parking are among the suggested improvements.
Mayor Jay Gillian stated that once the project is completed, the boat ramp will become a beautiful public facility with much-needed enhancements for boaters and other users. In addition to improving the ramps and docks, flood-mitigation work will also be carried out, benefiting the entire city. The renovation aims to provide residents and visitors with a safe and accessible dock system. Handicapped access will be incorporated into the ramps, and the entire parking lot will be reconstructed, raised slightly, and repaved. To address flood protection during severe storm conditions, new permanent bulkheads will be installed, along with removable bulkhead sections along the boat ramp and dock area.
In 2018, the city made certain improvements to the facility, such as adding padding to the floating dock pilings to protect boats and repaving the parking lot. However, due to the passage of time and numerous storms, these upgrades have deteriorated. Nonetheless, the Tennessee Avenue Boat Ramp remains a popular spot for boats and watercraft, with approximately 2,500 launches occurring each summer.
For more information about the Tennessee Avenue Boat Ramp, visit the official website at https://www.ocnj.us/boatramp.
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