PORT TOWNSEND — After about a month of operation, an expanded ramp in the Port Townsend Boat Haven has led to smoother operations and faster access times, a port official said.
“You can look out this window and see the difference,” said Eric Toews, Port of Port Townsend planner, as he pointed toward a crowded parking lot.
“One lane access was inadequate in meeting the demand, and on some days it was highly congested and took an hour to get in or out of the water,” he said.
The ramp has been doubled in width, from an 18-foot single lane to a double lane separated by a divider to allow simultaneous use by two boats.
Toews said the demand for the ramp increased significantly as boaters gravitated toward using trailer boats rather than renting a moorage spot.
“Whenever you can expand an existing facility rather than building a new one it’s a good thing.”
The $454,000 project was subsidized by a $329,000 grant from the state Recreation and Conservation Office, with the remaining $122,000 originating from the port’s general fund.
Basic construction was complete by Feb. 15 to accommodate a state-imposed “fish window.”
It has been in operation since May.
A finishing touch done this month roughed up the ramp to prevent slips and increase safety.
Access is $10 a day and $70 for a yearly pass.
The ramp is unsupervised on evenings and weekends. Payment is on the honor system using an on-site drop box which Toews characterizes as “an iron ranger.”
Toews said the project received “abundant community support” from business and recreation groups.
A June 2014 letter advocating the grant from Teresa Verraes, Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce executive director, said its construction would attract anglers from throughout the region, add an economic benefit and provide expanded recreational opportunities for Jefferson County residents.
Last week, six area tribes used the expanded ramp to manage a 48-hour crab access that yielded twice as many crabs as last year, according to Brett Dakota, Port Gamble S’Klallam tribal member.
Port Director Sam Gibboney was pleased to see the commercial activity by the tribes, while adding the port had to manage traffic congestion problems during the harvesting.
“It’s great to see growth, but there will be some growing pains,” Gibboney said.
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Jefferson County Editor Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or cbermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
