Upgrades to Rasmussen boat ramp access road start next week

Townsville City Council will start work on a $180,000 upgrade to the access track that connects the Loam Island boat ramp to the Loam Island Rowing Club car park on Monday 21 March 2022.

Part of the work will involve an asphalt overlay to the access track to make it safer and easier for people to use.

Deputy Mayor Mark Molachino said the ramp was regularly used by people wanting to ski on Ross River.

“It is very popular with recreational boaties and jet ski users who launch their vessel from the boat ramp to get onto the Ross River,” Cr Molachino said.

“Council has had to regularly maintain the access track due to the regular usage and erosion from rain.

“These works will reduce maintenance costs and improve access to the ramp for Townsville’s boating community.

“Council is also widening the track, in sections, to make it possible for safer passing movements.”

Cr Molachino said the upgrades were part of Council’s goals to further enhance the city’s liveability.

“People love getting out on their boats and enjoy being able to ski on the Ross River,” Cr Molachino said.

“By upgrading infrastructure like this, we can make it easier and safer for them to do that.

“Unfortunately, the upgrades will mean the closure of the ramp for a few weeks.

“Council knows it is not ideal that locals won’t be able to access the ramp while the upgrades are being carried out and thank the community for their understanding during the works.

“The car park at the rowing club will still be open, and traffic control, signage and safety fencing will be in place for pedestrians and vehicles.”

Work is expected to take about three weeks.

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