With its new docks in place, East Chicago is preparing to start work on its new Harborwalk. Image provided
EAST CHICAGO — The city is ready to move on to another project at its marina as it puts the finishing touches on its dock replacement program.
The city has all but wrapped up the $4.7 million project that involved the installation of 150 new slips, which are already hosting boaters. There had been 285 slips at the marina previously, but city officials said only about 175 of those were actually being used the last few years.
The Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority two years ago approved a $12.9 million grant for the second phase of the $35 million East Chicago Gateway project. About $4.5 million of that money went for the demolition, construction and installation of the slips that were put in last month. City funds paid for soft costs, such as design and engineering on the project.
Next Monday, Mayor Anthony Copeland and the East Chicago Port Authority will host a groundbreaking at 2301 Aldis Ave. for another project at the marina.
The Harborwalk project to be completed in two phases will use $3.5 million in RDA funding, according to city spokesman Steve Segura.
"We have been working hard to beautify our lakefront and this year we have stayed on course with construction," Copeland said in a prepared statement. "It is one thing to see the blueprints on paper, but it is truly humbling to see them in reality, and, within a few months, we will all experience a beautiful new Harborwalk to enjoy for generations to come."
Segura said the anticipated completion date of the Harborwalk project is around Labor Day.
The project will include removing and disposing of the existing concrete pavement, landscape and lighting. Workers will install new concrete footings, pavement and lighting, including a lighted handrail. There will also be a floating fountain, benches, structures to provide shade, furniture and landscaping.
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