Port Washington North officials announced Friday that construction is set to begin on phase two of the Bay Walk waterfront, which will include a kayak dock, parking access, new benches and lighting.
“We are so excited to see this project commence,” Mayor Bob Weitzner said. “We hope to attract more recreational and economic activity to the Port Washington area.”
In partnership with the Town of North Hempstead, the $1.5 million expansion is set to be completed in the fall.
The project is the final phase of the original Bay Walk Park master plan, which was created in 2005.
The Bay Walk Park project consists of 1.7 acres of waterfront property near Shore Road in Port Washington, and stretches from the town’s public dock to Manorhaven Beach Park.
Officials said phase two of the Bay Walk plan includes the creation of a kayak launch and boat resting area, new artwork expanding the Outdoor Nautical Art Museum, a parking lot and drop off zone, family picnic area with sun shades, an electronic informational kiosk, a water bottle replenishing station complete with a water fountain and a pet water station, a rain garden, and the expansion of the Port North pier float.
Cameron Engineering & Associates LLP designed the plan for the expansion of the Bay Walk and Woodstock Construction of Oyster Bay is constructing it.
The project received the support of the entire Port North community and from nearly every level of government, including funding by the state Department of State; state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historical Preservation; the Town of North Hempstead; and Nassau County, officials said.
“On behalf of the entire Port North community, I’d like thank Town [of North Hempstead] Supervisor Judi Bosworth, Town Councilwoman Dina De Giorgio, state Sen. Jack Martins, state Assemblywoman Michelle Schimel, and Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi Whitton for their continued support and assistance in making this project become a reality,” Weitzner said.
“The final phase of the Bay Walk Park project will make Port North a true destination for anyone looking to spend some time along beautiful Sheets Creek and Manhasset Bay,” Bosworth said, citing its “unique blend of recreational, cultural and educational elements.”
“The new park will be a wonderful addition to our beautiful waterfront, and will be a real boost to our local economy by encouraging residents to stay in Port Washington, and support our small businesses” De Giorgio said.
According to Mayor Weitzner, the community should be aware that while the project is underway, there will be no pedestrian access north of the Port North Pier to the Gulfway Marina.
The Bay Walk south of the construction zone, including the Port North Pier, will be open.
Crosswalk access across Shore Road to points south of the construction zone is located at the corner of Shore Road and Mill Pond Road.
“We appreciate the community’s patience while our Bay Walk Park expands to new heights” Weitzner said. “I promise it will be worth it.”
