JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Jan. 20, 2012) – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced it will temporarily close the Canal Point Recreation Area at Lake Okeechobee due to ongoing construction associated with the rehabilitation of Herbert Hoover Dike.
The recreation area is scheduled to close Wednesday, Jan. 25 and is expected to remain closed until July while contractors work on constructing a “cut-off” wall inside the dike as part of the rehabilitation project.
Contractors are using heavy construction vehicles and large equipment within these areas. Any additional traffic on the dike crest poses a safety hazard for visitors and equipment operators. The Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail is already closed at this location.
“We want to ensure workers can complete this project in a safe manner,” said Ingrid Bon, forward project manager for Herbert Hoover Dike rehabilitation. “Closing this access area of the lake helps reduce the possibility of an accident involving a member of the general public, and allows the contractor to complete the work in the most efficient manner possible.”
The Canal Point Recreation Area offers a boat ramp, fishing, and picnic facilities. Visitors seeking alternate locations of similar facilities are encouraged to use the Port Mayaca North Recreation Area, Paul Rardin Park or the Torrey Island Recreation Area.
Release no. 12-006