The repair of the bulkhead at Havens Gardens is in Washington’s Capital Improvements Plan, and the city is seeking money to help pay for that project.

During its meeting Monday, the City Council is scheduled to discuss authorizing the city’s parks and recreation director to submit a pre-application for money from the state’s Marine Resources Fund. The estimated preliminary cost for the repair project is $430,000, according to the council’s tentative agenda for its meeting.

During its June meeting, the city’s Recreation Advisory Committee recommended the city pursue funding for the project through the Marine Resources Fund. The bulkhead is continuing to deteriorate.

“It is recommended to complete this project in two phases, beginning on the bridge side and completed an estimated 700 feet of bulkhead. Phase 1 would cost an estimated $215,00.00. The grant does not require a match, however (it) would be a stronger application if the City provided a 10% match,” wrote Kristi Roberson, the city’s parks and recreation director, in a memorandum to the mayor and council. All contracts for projects receiving money from the Marine Resources Fund would begin no sooner than July 1, 2017, according to the memorandum.

In April 2009, the council authorized further development of an improvement plan for Havens Gardens. At that April 2009 meeting, the council endorsed Concept C, the preferred plan for modifying the waterfront park, which abuts the Pamlico River and Runyon Creek.
Concept C included improved walkways near the park that connect neighborhoods, Jack’s Creek greenway and public facilities such as Veterans Park. It also noted the need for repairing or replace the bulkhead at the waterfront park. In March, the council gave the green light to the city seeking funds to help build a new fishing pier at Havens Gardens.

Other proposed improvements at Havens Gardens include a loop walking trail west of the parking lot, a shelter on the west end of Havens Gardens so it overlooks the Pamlico River, a fenced-in play area for small children and adding facilities for a splash park, bocce and beach volleyball. A kayak launch at the adjacent boat ramps is in the works.

The council meets at 5:30 p.m. Monday in the Council Chambers in the Municipal Building, 102 E. Second St. To view the council’s agenda for a specific meeting, visit the city’s web­site at www.washingtonnc.gov, click “Government” then “City Council” heading, then click “Meeting Agendas” on the menu to the right. Then click on the date for the appropriate agenda.