There’s a new dock system in the Manitowoc Marina.
The new dock was built over the winter to better support the boating community with larger slips and full ADA accessibility.
The addition also enhances the marina’s commitment to supporting tourism and recreational boating.
Manitowoc Marina General Manager Chris Marx explained that replacing the “A” Dock was critical because Manitowoc is one of the major ports on Lake Michigan.
Marx described, “If you let these (docks) age out, there’s other facilities that have actually closed down because it becomes such a financial burden if you don’t incrementally start to replace these docks, it can be a high fee going forward.”
Right now, the new dock has been working well so far.
“We’re really excited about having the new state of the art equipment,” he said. “Keeping the facility relevant and having a focus on, catering to, modern boats in the recreational boating industry.”
Marina Owner Rich Larsen said before a ribbon cutting with the Chamber Manitowoc County on Friday (May 9th) that working with the city and getting a $500,000 federal grant was important for the project to be finished.
The dock is made of better material that will last longer than the old dock that was built over 40 years ago.
Marx also credited the city.
“A ton of recreational spending in the area,” he added. “It’s just part of an amenity for the city that is very positive. It’s a family-oriented activity.”
The Marina A Dock is the largest in the marina and has a gas tank for boats to fuel up.
The construction bid was awarded in September 2024.
