Plans to invest as much as 13 million dollars into revitalizing Sheboygan’s lakefront and 30-year-old marina beginning next year were announced on Wednesday by City Administrator Casey Bradley.
In his first prominent venture since taking his new position on October 23rd, Bradley described the project for Sheboygan as a “transformative journey to revitalize its iconic lakefront and marina, breathing new life into a cherished community asset.” He added that “While aware of many current challenges, the City is committed to creating an exciting, accessible, and vibrant lakeside destination.”
Some steps have already been taken, beginning with the decision not to renew a management agreement between the City and F3 Marine effective at the end of this year. While acknowledging F3’s decade-long service as “invaluable” and “professional”, Bradley said it would not be equitable to F3’s business to continue managing the marina given the evolving circumstances. The City of Sheboygan already manages all docks along the Sheboygan River, and it was decided to extend this management to the marina under the new plan.
Of immediate concern, though, is the aging infrastructure and recurring annual damage to docks and their 250 slips; issues that, in part, have made it hard for operations to meet revenue projections and demand. But beyond that, the City will develop a comprehensive plan encompassing public and open spaces, housing and commercial development opportunities, zoning, land use, and more.
Calling it a “proactive move”, Bradley said the City will collaborate with a consultant to “envision a brighter future for the marina and lakefront area.”
