Flagler County, Florida — A popular boat ramp in Flagler County is set to close for several weeks during one of the busiest boating periods of the year, sparking frustration among local business owners, charter captains and recreational boaters.
Officials confirmed that the Bing’s Landing boat ramp will shut down beginning June 1 for a maintenance dredging project that county leaders say can no longer be delayed.
County Says Dangerous Silt Buildup Forced Closure
According to Flagler County officials, years of silt accumulation in the basin have created serious issues for boaters using the ramp along the Matanzas River.
Interim County Administrator Adam Mengel explained that the buildup has reached a point where boat propellers are now striking the sediment while launching and returning to shore.
“The props on the boats right now, both launching and when they’re coming back to return, are hitting that silt, and it’s something that’s needed here,” Mengel said. “If it continues right now (and) we go into the fall, we’re just gonna have a worse situation.”
County officials say the maintenance project is necessary to improve water depth and prevent conditions from becoming even more hazardous later in the year.
Local Businesses Fear Financial Impact
While many local boaters agree the dredging work is needed, several business owners say the timing could not be worse.
The closure comes at the start of Florida’s busy summer boating season, a critical time for businesses that rely heavily on tourism and water traffic.
Among those voicing concern is Capt. Mike Vickers, owner of Hammock Bait & Tackle, located directly across from the ramp.
“I agree the boat basin, the boat ramp, does need to be dredged. I launch my boats from there, so that’s not the issue,” Vickers said.
However, he believes the county should have waited until a slower season to begin construction.
“It’s not just myself. It’s not my business. It’s other businesses. It’s the other charter captains, the boat rentals, the restaurant across the street,” Vickers said.
Local operators worry reduced access to the water could significantly impact customer traffic and summer revenue during one of the busiest months of the year.
County Says Delaying Project Isn’t Possible
Mengel acknowledged the frustration from residents and business owners, saying the county has received numerous emails and complaints since the closure announcement.
Still, officials argue postponing the project until winter is not realistic due to rising costs and concerns surrounding hurricane season.
“The other worry we have, somewhat, is the hurricane season,” Mengel said. “And so realizing that summer is definitely the busy time, (and) everyone wants to get out on the water, it’s unfortunate for us, but we need to get it done now.”
County leaders also said they attempted to minimize disruption by scheduling the closure after Memorial Day weekend and before the July 4 holiday weekend, two of the busiest boating periods of the summer.
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Alternative Boat Ramps Available
During the closure, boaters will need to use alternative launch locations, including the Hershel King boat ramp, located several miles away.
For many local captains and anglers, the added travel and inconvenience are expected to create additional challenges during already busy summer operations.
Despite understanding the need for dredging, some residents remain unconvinced that now is the right time.
“I agree it needs to be done. I don’t think it needs to be done right now,” Vickers said.
Project Costs More Than $600,000
According to county officials, the dredging project will cost just over $600,000.
About half of the funding is being provided by the Florida Inland Navigation District, while the remainder will come from county funds.
Officials hope the work can be completed quickly to minimize disruption, though the closure is expected to last at least three weeks.
What do you think about the timing of this popular Florida boat ramp closure? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
