The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners has agreed to accept responsibility for a new boat launch to be constructed by the state where Ball Ground Road (Ga. 372) crosses over the Etowah River.
The Cherokee Board of Commissioners approved entering into an operation and maintenance agreement for the launch with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
Plans call for DNR to design and get permits for the ramp this year, with construction scheduled for 2020, according to a staff report to commissioners. The state would build a gravel road and parking lot and a concrete ramp suitable for canoes and kayaks, and the county would maintain the facility.
“This ramp aligns with priorities in the 2019-2028 Recreation, Parks, Greenspace & Trails Master Plan and is the first step in creating a blueway (or canoe trail) along the river,” staff said.
“There’s an ad hoc launch site there now, but it’s just down in the mud,” said Commission Chairman Harry Johnston. “This would be a great improvement for people who like to boat on the upper Etowah River.”
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