Connecticut DEP to Temporarily Close the Gardner Lake State Boat Launch in Salem for Renovations

Alternative Public Boat Launches Available

The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will be temporarily closing the Gardner Lake State Boat Launch in Salem for renovations. The closure will be effective September 4, 2007 through April 15, 2008 while the State boat launch is being upgraded and facilities enhanced.

Renovations to the Gardner Lake State Boat Launch will include:

Boat Ramp – installing a new ramp of pre-cast concrete, with a grooved surface;

Dock – installing a new fixed concrete dock;

Access Road & Turning Area – redesigning, prepping and paving the surfaces;

ADA Accessibility – installing a paved handicapped accessible parking area and travel way with unhindered access to the dock system;

Parking Area – improving parking design, and prepping and paving the surfaces;

Lighting – installing a new solar powered street light at the ramp for night boating.

"The rehabilitation of the boat launch will enhance recreational opportunities for boaters in the State," said Eleanor Mariani, of DEP’s Boating Division. "The renovations, which will be completed by early spring 2008, will improve boating operations with better designed parking and access roads, new dock system and lighting, and an improved boat ramp; all facilitating the safe and efficient launching and retrieval of boats."

While the renovations are taking place, the public can utilize the following boat launches in the area: Bashan Lake, Upper Moodus Reservoir, and the Lower Moodus Reservoir, all in East Haddam. For additional state owned boat launches see the CT Boater’s Guide or visit the Boating section of the DEP website at: www.ct.gov/dep/boating