Corps temporarily closes Port Mayaca South Recreation Area

Published Feb. 10, 2012

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Feb. 10, 2012) – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District announced today it has temporarily closed the Port Mayaca South Recreation Area at Lake Okeechobee due to ongoing construction associated with the rehabilitation of Herbert Hoover Dike.

 

The recreation area is expected to remain closed for more than a year, until the summer of 2013, while soil that is being staged from rehabilitation activities in the area is removed. Contractors are using heavy construction vehicles to move the material. Any additional traffic in this area poses a safety hazard for visitors and equipment operators. In addition, foot traffic is not permitted due to the unevenness of the terrain.

 

“We want to ensure construction workers can complete this project in a safe manner,” said Ingrid Bon, forward Project Manager for Herbert Hoover Dike rehabilitation. “Closing this recreation area on a temporary basis reduces the possibility of an accident involving a member of the general public.”

 

The Port Mayaca South Recreation Area offers bank fishing and an overlook of the lake and lock structures. Visitors seeking alternate locations of similar facilities are encouraged to use the Port Mayaca North Recreation Area, Paul Rardin Park or the Torry Island Recreation Area. 

 

“Lake Okeechobee and the Okeechobee waterway hosts nearly six million visitors a year at our many recreation areas and we want these visitors to have a safe and enjoyable experience each and every time, whether they are hiking, biking, fishing or camping,” said Adam Tarplee, natural resource program manager.


Contact
John Campbell
904-232-1004
john.h.campbell@usace.army.mil

Release no. 12-013