Presenter: Tim Hogsett

Commission Agenda Item No. 2
Action
Local Boat Ramp Grant Funding
April 2004

I. Executive Summary: The Department has recently received one application for new boat ramp construction requesting $95,100 in matching fund assistance. Funding approval is recommended.

II. Discussion: Local Boat Ramp Grants: The State Boat Ramp Program was authorized in 1975 by the Sixty-fourth Legislature. The program provides funds for the purchase, construction and maintenance of boat ramps, access roads and related improvements. Program funds may also be used for capital improvements to existing state boat ramp sites. The program receives funding from two sources: (1) The Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act, also known as the Wallop-Breaux Program, and (2) The State Game, Fish and Water Safety Fund.

Fifteen percent of the State’s annual apportionment from the federal Wallop-Breaux Program must be used to provide public access for motor boating facilities. Construction for new ramps is supported on a 75 percent (state) 25 percent (local) basis.

The City of Aransas Pass is requesting a 75 percent matching share grant in the amount of $95,100 for the construction of a new dock/walkway and repair of an existing dock/walkway, dredging, shoreline clean up and protection, and a covered fish cleaning station. The facility is located at an existing boat ramp in Harbor Park in Conn Brown Harbor.

All facilities will be operated and maintained by the City of Aransas Pass.

III. Recommendation: Staff recommends the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission adopt the following motion:

“Funding for a new construction project in the amount of $95,100 is approved for boating access facilities to be renovated/developed in Aransas Pass, Texas.”

Attachment – 1
1. Exhibit A – Fiscal Note