River kayak launch completed

Area residents heading into a holiday weekend got some refreshing news as Wilmington officially opened a new North Island kayak launch, a project city officials say expands recreation opportunities along the Kankakee River.
“This amazing new launch is 100% ADA accessible and also features a wheelchair transfer station for those needing assistance,” Wilmington Mayor Ben Dietz said in a public update announcing the opening. “The project also includes a new parking lot and path to the launch.”
The announcement came as the Wilmington City Council approved a final payment request tied to construction of the project during its May 19 meeting.
Council members approved a payment of $197,631.90 to Austin Tyler Construction, Inc. following a recommendation from engineering firm Chamlin & Associates, which reviewed and inspected the completed work.
Project documents show the overall contract totaled $368,061.50. According to the engineer’s payment estimate, completed work included earth excavation, topsoil placement, erosion control measures, aggregate base installation, concrete pavement and installation of the kayak launch itself, along with related site improvements.
The approved payment represented completed work totaling $219,591, minus a 10 percent retainage amount of $21,959.10.
The kayak launch is part of a broader series of park improvements underway on Wilmington’s Island Park system. Dietz said work continues on a new walking path on the South Island that will eventually connect the southern end of the island to the new playground and the North Island concession stand.
“We’re not stopping there though, just taking the summer off to enjoy our parks,” Dietz said. “All of these projects will be completed prior to our annual Let Freedom Rock party on June 26.”
Dietz also thanked residents for participating in the planning process.
“I wanted to thank our residents for your input on the playground design and parks plan as well as your patience with us on delivering these improvements,” he said. “Together, these projects represent over $1.2 million of investment into our parks.”