Good Question: Who closed the boat launch?

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Our Good Question is about some new work happening by the bay.

A viewer named Mike sent News10NBC’s Brennan Somers an email saying: Many people were shocked to find that the boat launch at the end of Culver Road was fenced off. This launch is very busy both during the week and on weekends. By contrast, the boat launch at Charlotte is busy only on weekends. What is going on? Why were there no signs posted explaining what was happening?

Here’s the answer for Mike, other boaters and neighbors. It’s all due to a major construction project just getting underway at the Irondequoit Bay Marine Park.

Last month, state and local leaders broke ground for a series of improvements. The project will raise the boat launch, docks and parking lot so they can continue to operate even if the area is flooded. The park is also getting some upgrades including a new playground, a fishing pier complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act and a pavilion.

"This is a dock, a launch point for emergency responders so it really needs to be open under all conditions," State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said. "It’s just a tremendous investment in these communities, putting your money where your mouth is and making sure Upstate New York, these shorelines come back better than before."

The work just got started Monday and also covers a nearby project to improve storm drainage sewers along Culver Road.

The boat launch and parking lots in that part of town will be closed until everything is done.

While most of the work will take place this fall, crews will put the finishing touches on the docking and landscaping in the spring.

If you have a question you’d like answered, send an email to GoodQuestion@whec.com.