Facility Condition Assessment

FACILITY CONDITION

ASSESSMENT: COASTAL BEND PUBLIC BOAT RAMPS

By

Jacob R. Brown

November 2, 2015

A Professional Paper Submitted In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of

MASTER OF SCIENCE

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

Environmental Science Program

Corpus Christi, Texas

Approved: ____________________________________Date:_____________

Dr. R. Mclaughlin, Chairperson

Approved: ____________________________________Date:_____________

Dr. J. Gibeaut, Member

Approved: ____________________________________Date:_____________

Tony Wood, Member

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Table of Contents

Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…3

Methodology………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….….4

Assessment of Facilities………………………………………….…………………………………………………………….….16

Captain Cady’s Bait Shop…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…...17

Captain Cady’s Bait Shop 2……………………………………………………………………………………………………….19

Copano Bay State Fishing Pier-South………………………………………………………………………………….……21

Cove Harbor…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….23

Navigation Boat Ramp……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..25

Goose Island State Park…………………………………………………………………..……………………………………….27

Rockport Beach Boat Ramp……………………………………………………………………………………………………..29

St. Charles Bay Boat Ramp……………………………………………………………………………………………………….31

Kaufer-Hubert Memorial Park………………………………………………………………………………………………….33

Bird Island Basin, Padre Island National Seashore…………………………………………………………………….35

Billings Bait & Tackle………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..37

Clem’s Marina………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….39

Conn Brown’s Harbor Point Park………………………………………………………………………………………………41

Coopers Alley L-Head……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….43

Marinaville……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….45

Dennis Dryer Municipal Harbor………………………………………………………………………………………….…….47

Fin & Feather Marina……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….49

Hazel Bazemore County Park……………………………………………………………………………………………………51

Labonte Park……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………53

Packery Channel………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………55

Aransas River Boat Ramp…………………………………………………………………………………………………………57

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Austwell Community Park………………………………………………………………………………………………………..59

Texas Parks & Wildlife Boat Ramp……………………………………………………………………………………………61

Cove Park…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………63

Ransom Park……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………65

San Patricio County Navigation District #1……………………………………………………………………………….67

Analysis……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………69

Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….70

Appendix I……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….71

Appendix II………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………72

Appendix III……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..73

Appendix IV………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………….74

Literature Cited………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..75

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Introduction

The Texas Coastal Bend has an extensive coastline along beaches, bays, and riparian systems in

5 separate counties: Aransas, Kleberg, Nueces, Refugio, and San Patricio. Together, these

counties account for a vast portion of the state’s coast, stretching hundreds of miles. Each of

the counties are dependent upon access to their waterways for tourism, emergency response,

and the general welfare of the community. This essential need for access to waterways has led

to the increased attention on public access throughout the coast.

As such, public access sites have increased over the past decade throughout the region,

creating more opportunities for the general public to engage in these activities (Texas General

Land Office). Public boat ramps, arguably the most essential public access site in the region

next to public beaches, are found throughout the Coastal Bend with great variability in size,

condition, and amenities provided. Incredibly, there is no known inventory and assessment of

the public ramps along this region. While some counties, such as Nueces and Aransas, have

conducted their own inventories of public access sites, assessments for these sites have yet to

occur. In order to provide the general public, site managers, and community planners with

knowledge of their facilities and general condition, this report will conduct a facility condition

assessment for all public boat ramps along the Coastal Bend. The assessment will involve not

only the boat ramp itself, but include other essential features located at public boat ramps that

add significant value through benefit of some sort.

In total, there are 26 public boat ramps throughout the 5 Coastal Bend counties, geographically

identified on Appendix IV. A list of the sites is featured on Table 1. Each site will require

physical examination and assessment of all conditions, including composition, size, identified

hazards, and a quality ranking score. Quality ranking scores (1-4) were developed for this

project to rank the facilities based on a set of parameters. A list of the parameters used to

assess each feature’s quality is found on Table 2. The quality ranking score was used so that

further analysis of sites and features could be accomplished. Each site, county, and amenity

has an average quality ranking score, reflecting the average quality of identified features. The

average quality ranking score is only an assessment of the current features present, without

penalizing the score for absence of a feature (restroom, pier, etc.). A separate average was

used, called total average quality ranking, which supplemented zeros for sites without a given

feature. The features considered were: boat ramp, boat dock, pier, access road, access

ramp/stairwell, parking lot, hand rails, tie downs, boat slips, signage, and restrooms.

This report will not only assess each of these sites and features, but will also determine the best

and most practical enhancements for each given site. Enhancements will be chosen based on

priority of the feature, depending on expense, benefit, and risk. Each variable, expense, benefit

and risk, have several subsets used for consideration, further discussed in the next section. The

importance of these enhancements cannot be stressed enough, because failure to repair or

replace some of the features currently in poor condition could potentially lead to user

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incidents, resulting in litigation against site managers and associated costs for any damage to

property or users themselves. Finally, this report will compare all sites assessed to determine

the best and worst sites, as well as comparative analysis between counties and features.

Methodology

Methods involved for this project include a series of steps, first to identify sites and parameters,

then collect the data, assess the data, create a working table for analysis, and finally develop

enhancement recommendations based on priority and condition.

Identify Sites & Define Parameters

o To identity all of the public boat ramps throughout each of the 5 counties, the

Texas General Land Office Application, found online at txcoasts.com#, was used.

This application was recently released and has current 2015 data for the entire

Texas coastline. The application allows a user to choose a given feature, like

boat ramps, and identify the location geographically. Therefore, the application

further provided during the data collection process, and was used to navigate to

rural areas with little to no other directional guidance. Below is a list of the 26

public boat ramps within the Coastal Bend region (Table 1), identified through

the txcoasts.com web application.

o Parameters for assessing each of the features at the sites was developed after

researching similar projects done for parks in the past. In general, the

parameters are set as follows: (1) Poor: Immediate need of repair/replacement;

(2) Fair: Major damage to feature but maintains essential function; (3) Good:

Minor damage and wear to feature, overall decent condition; (4) Excellent: Little

to no noticeable wear or damage of feature, almost new conditions. A detailed

set of parameters used when evaluating each feature is found below on Table 2.

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Table 1: List of Sites for Assessment

County Site

Aransas Captain Cady's Bait Shop

Aransas Captain Cady's Bait Shop 2

Aransas Copano Bay State Fishing Pier - South

Aransas Cove Harbor

Aransas Navigation Boat Ramp

Aransas Goose Island State Park

Aransas Rockport Beach Boat Ramp

Aransas St. Charles Bay Boat Ramp

Kleberg Kaufer-Hubert Memorial Park

Kleberg Padre Island National Seashore

Nueces Billings Bait & Tackle

Nueces Clem's Marina

Nueces Conn Brown's Harbor Point Park

Nueces Cooper's Alley L-Head BoatRamp

Nueces Dennis Dreyer Municipal Harbor

Nueces Fin & Feather Marina

Nueces Hazel Bazemore County Park

Nueces Labonte Park

Nueces Marinaville

Nueces Packery Channel

Refugio Aransas River Boat Ramp

Refugio Austwell Community Park

Refugio Texas Parks & Wildlife Boat Ramp

San Patricio Cove Park

San Patricio Ransom Road Park

San Patricio San Patricio County Navigation District #1

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Table 2: Parameters for Quality Ranking

A. Boat Ramp

4 In excellent condition: like new, no cracks on surface, free of protrusions, free of holes, painting and striping appropriately located and uniform in color

3 In good condition: minor cracks on surface < 3 inch wide, minor protrusions, minor holes < 3 inch wide not affecting ramp, painting slightly cracked or dull

2 In fair condition: cracks on surface < 2 foot wide, minor protrusions, holes < 2 foot wide, painting is spotty and fading

1 In poor condition: cracks > 2 foot wide, large protrusion, holes > 2 foot, painting patchy and difficult to see, immediately repair

B. Boat Dock

4 In excellent condition: like new < 10% deterioration, no holes in wood, no damage to structure, little corrosion to material

3 In good condition: 10-25% deterioration, minor cracks in wood, minor holes in wood, minor corrosion

2 In fair condition: 25-50% deterioration, large cracks in wood, large holes in wood, damage to structure, significant corrosion

1 In poor condition: 50-100% deterioration, unsafe for use, immediately repair/replace

C. Pier





D. Access Ramp





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E. Hand Rails





F. Tie Offs





G. Boat Slips





H. Signage

4 In excellent condition: like new, appropriate signs in place, no damage to signs, signage system in place

3 In good condition: few damaged signs (0-10%), multiple signage system

2 In fair condition: damaged signs (10-25%), multiple signage system, signs difficult to read

1 In poor condition: damaged signs < 25%, need replacing

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I. Restrooms

4 In excellent condition: like new, no leaks, little sign of wear, no graffiti, facility in working order

3 In good condition: signs of wear but structurally sound, minor leaks, most elements in working order

2 In fair condition: significant signs of wear to floor or roof, few elements in working order, significant graffiti

1 In poor condition: need repair or replacement, not in working order

J. Parking Lot

4 In excellent condition: like new, paving and drainage do not need repair, pavement markings clear, pathway connection provided to facility

3 In good condition: paving needs some patching or has small drainage problem, pavement markings faded, no connection to facility

2 In fair condition: paving requires repair, uneven grading, some ruts/holes, pavement markings difficult to read, no connection to facility

1 In poor condition: unsafe conditions, significant ruts/holes, no markings, immediate repair required

K. Access Road

4 In excellent condition: like new, paving and drainage do not need repair, pavement markings clear, pathway connection provided to facility

3 In good condition: paving needs some patching or has small drainage problem, pavement markings faded, no connection to facility

2 In fair condition: paving requires repair, uneven grading, some ruts/holes, pavement markings difficult to read, no connection to facility

1 In poor condition: unsafe conditions, significant ruts/holes, no markings, immediate repair required

Collecting field data

o Field data was collect September 26 – October 5, 2015 under normal

atmospheric conditions. Physical assessment included visual inspection of all

facilities, measurement of ramp conditions, and “stability” tests of certain

features like boat docks and piers. Visual inspection of facilities was performed

by visiting each site and examining all features closely. Data collected includes

size, composition, condition, hazards, and a quality ranking.

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o Measurements were collected only for the actual boat ramps themselves. Data

was collected for the boat ramp width and slope, using a standard open reel

measuring tape and a magnetic angle reader. Units were recorded in the English

system using measurements of feet and inches for width, and measured in

degrees for slope.

o Stability tests were performed for most wooden structures (boat docks, piers,

access ramp/stairwells). These tests simply involved walking on the structure

and feeling for weaknesses in the wood, loose boards, or shifting of weight in the

structure.

Analyzing Quality Ranking

o Upon completion of field work, the data was then transferred to an Excel

spreadsheet for further analysis. The quality ranking data was extracted for each

site and feature, and congregated onto one spreadsheet containing only quality

ranking data. This data was then organized by county with overall county

averages for specific features.

o Average quality rankings were assessed for sites, features, and counties. The

average quality ranking was determined by averaging only the assessed quality

rankings for a given site or feature. For example, if a site had quality rankings of

3 for every feature except for restrooms, because restrooms were not located at

the site, then the average quality ranking would not consider restrooms into the

rank, resulting in an average of 3.

o A separate average was calculated, called total average quality ranking, which

accounts for missing features that are not located at a site. For instance,

consider the same example used on the previous paragraph where a site has a

quality ranking of 3 across the board, with the exception of restrooms because

they are simply not available at the location. The total average quality ranking

adds restrooms into the calculation, with a given value of 0, thus reducing the

quality ranking of the feature or site.

o Finally, an assessment of the percentage of sites with a given feature was

calculated per county and totaled with all counties. This information was used

to identify the frequency of features present at the most locations assessed.

Enhancement Prioritization

o Enhancements are prioritized according to the cost, benefits, and risk analyses

found on Tables 3-11. Recommendations for future enhancements.

(repair/replacement) are based off this list of priorities, so that one feature will

take precedence over the other in determining focus of enhancement.

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o For expense analysis, enhancement activities considered estimated cost,

technical feasibility, and time for installation in determining priority ranks.

o Estimated costs were partly estimated based off the Nueces County Coastal

Management Master Plan of 2011. Other costs were estimated from contact or

research of services, such as installation of a wooden boat dock.

o For benefits analysis, enhancement activities considered the safety, function,

and added aesthetic value in determining priority ranks.

o For risk analysis, enhancement activities considered associated risks if features

were not enhanced, applying ranks for the level of risk involved.

o The overall analysis compiles the ranks of each activity for cost, benefit, and risk

to calculate rankings or prioritization of enhancements.

o Quality ranking data was also used in determining features for site

enhancement, based upon the level of ranking for specific features.

Expense Analysis

Table 3: Estimated costs, technical feasibility, and time for installation of activities.

Activity Estimated Cost Technical Feasibility Time for Installation

Repair asphalt parking $0.40-0.50/sq. foot + labor Contractor 1 day

Replace asphalt parking $1500/parking space Contractor weeks-several weeks

Repair concrete boat ramp $3-5/sq. foot + labor Site manager/Contractor 1 day

Replace concrete boat ramp $3-5/sq. foot + labor Contractor days to weeks

Repair wooden dock $100-2500 Site manager/Contractor 1-3 days

Replace wooden dock $25,000 Contractor several days - weeks

Replace 4'x2' signage $75-100/sign Contractor several days-weeks

Install permanent restroom facility $160/sq. foot + labor Contractor

weeks-several weeks

Install portable restroom facility $100/month Contractor 1 day

Install tie offs (cleats) $10-20/cleat Site manager several hours

Install handrails $30-40/foot + labor Site manager/Contractor 1 day

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Expense Analysis Cont.

Table 4: Designation of ranking system.

Table 5: Ranking of activities per associated expenses.

Time Rank Technical Feasibility Rank Cost Rank

less than 1 day low Site manager low <$500 low

1 day low-moderate site manager or local company low-moderate $500-2500

low-moderate

days to weeks moderate local company or contractor moderate

$2500-5000 moderate

weeks to several weeks moderate-high contractor

moderate-high

$5000-10000

moderate-high

months high multiple contractors high >$10000 high

Activity Estimated Cost Technical Feasibility

Time for Installation Expenses

Repair asphalt parking low-moderate moderate low-moderate low-moderate

Replace asphalt parking high moderate-high high high

Repair concrete boat ramp low-moderate moderate low-moderate low-moderate

Replace concrete boat ramp high high high high

Repair wooden dock low-moderate low-moderate low-moderate low-moderate

Replace wooden dock high moderate-high moderate-high moderate-high

Replace 4'x2' signage low low-moderate low low

Install permanent restroom facility high high high high

Install portable restroom facility low-moderate moderate low low-moderate

Install tie offs (cleats) low low low low

Install handrails low low-moderate low low

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Benefit Analysis

Table 6: Designation of feature hierarchy.

Primary Feature Secondary Feature Tertiary Feature

Boat ramp Access ramp Tie offs

Access road Restrooms Hand rail

Parking lot Signage Boat slip

Boat dock Pier

Table 7: Designation of ranking system.

Safety Rank Function Rank Aesthetic Value Rank

Essential for safety of facility high



Essential for function of facility moderate-high



Improve primary feature moderate



Improve secondary feature low-moderate



Improve tertiary feature low



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Benefits Analysis Cont.

Table 8: Rank of activity benefits

Activity Safety Function Aesthetic Value Rank

Repair asphalt parking moderate moderate moderate moderate

Replace asphalt parking moderate-high moderate-high moderate moderate-high

Repair concrete boat ramp moderate moderate moderate moderate

Replace concrete boat ramp moderate-high moderate-high moderate-high moderate-high

Repair wooden dock moderate moderate moderate moderate

Replace wooden dock high high high high

Replace 4'x2' signage low-moderate moderate-high low-moderate low-moderate

Install permanent restroom facility low-moderate high high low-moderate

Install portable restroom facility low-moderate high high low-moderate

Install tie offs (cleats) low moderate-high low low

Install handrails moderate low low low-moderate

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Risk Analysis

Table 9: Designation of rank for associated risks.

Risk Rank

Immediate danger; severe risk high

Potentially strong danger; mid-high level of risk moderate-high

Moderate danger; warning signs or markers could be used to avoid risk moderate-high

Some level of danger; little risk involved low-moderate

No danger, no risk involved low

Table 10: Rank of risk for activities if not performed.

Activity Rank

Repair asphalt parking moderate

Replace asphalt parking moderate-high

Repair concrete boat ramp moderate

Replace concrete boat ramp high

Repair wooden dock moderate

Replace wooden dock high

Replace 4'x2' signage low

Install permanent restroom facility low

Install portable restroom facility low

Install tie offs (cleats) low

Install handrails low-moderate

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Overall Analysis

Table 11: Rank of activities based on cost, benefit, and risk analyses.

Activity Cost Benefit Risk Overall

Repair asphalt parking low-moderate moderate moderate moderate

Replace asphalt parking high moderate-high moderate-high moderate-high

Repair concrete boat ramp low-moderate moderate moderate moderate

Replace concrete boat ramp high moderate-high high high

Repair wooden dock low-moderate moderate moderate moderate

Replace wooden dock moderate-high high high high

Replace 4'x2' signage low low-moderate low low

Install permanent restroom facility high low-moderate low moderate

Install portable restroom facility low-moderate low-moderate low low-moderate

Install tie offs (cleats) low low low low

Install handrails low low-moderate low-moderate low-moderate

Prioritization of Features for Enhancement

1) Boat Ramp

2) Access Road

3) Parking Lot

4) Boat Dock

5) Access Ramp

6) Restrooms

7) Hand Rails

8) Signage

9) Tie Offs

10) Pier

11) Boat Slips

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Assessment of Facilities

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Captain Cady’s Bait Shop

Aransas County

Location (27.913178, -97.133030)

Average Quality Ranking 2.00

Total Average Quality Ranking 0.91

Captain Cady’s Bait Shop is a privately owned bait shop adjacent to a public boat ramp. The

boat ramp is referred to as Captain Cady’s Bait Shop due to its proximity and lack of predefined

name. This boat ramp offers access to Red Fish Bay through the Conn Brown Harbor, and is

regularly used year round.

The site features 2 adjacent boat ramps, separated by a wide wooden boat dock. The ramps

themselves are in poor condition, made up of a patchwork of asphalt, concrete, and sand. The

approximate width of the ramps are 19’ and 17’, both having slopes of 6°. Hazards from the

ramp include large potholes, submerged concrete rubble, a large wooden board in obstruction

of the ramp, and submerged wooden posts. The wooden boat dock is very wide and in fair

condition, missing a large piece from one of the mid-section boards needing immediate repair.

The wood appears to be old and worn, but overall functions properly and is very stable. Repairs

to the dock are minor and would take little time. The parking lot and access ramp are also in

fair condition. The parking lot is composed of sand/gravel mix, featuring approximately 4

spaces. The “access ramp” is a diagonal extension of the boat dock, which could use minor

enhancements to allow better ease of access.

Initial enhancements for this site include (1) repairing the damaged boat ramp and removing all

associated hazards from the immediate area. Expenses for repairing the damaged boat ramp

along with removing hazards are low-moderate, with a total cost of less than $2500. (2) The

parking lot needs to be levelled along with clear markings for designated areas. With minimal

spaces considered, this project would not be costly and could add great value to the site. (3)

The dock could be repaired easily with replacement of one board at little cost. (4) The access

ramp could use a small gravel path between the dock and parking area due to the surrounding

wet sand. Laying gravel in this area would require minimal costs. (5) Finally, the site needs to

add signage, as there is none present on or around the location. To fully equip this site with

proper signage, an estimated $500 is needed.

Overall, this site has the 2nd lowest average quality ranking and the 2nd lowest total average

quality ranking out of all 26 sites. The ramp itself has several hazards and issues needing

immediate repair. Other features such as parking, access ramp, boat dock, and signage could

be enhanced at minimal costs and provide extended value to this site.

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Captain Cady’s Bait Shop 2

Aransas County

Location (27.989755, -97.079026)



Captain Cady’s Bait Shop 2 is another privately owned bait shop adjacent to a public boat ramp,

hence the name of the site. The boat ramp allows access to Aransas Bay through Cove Harbor

and appears to be a relatively new site.

There is a single concrete boat ramp at this site, approximately 23’ wide with a slope of 8°. The

ramp has a few minor cracks but no significant damage to any area. The site has 2 wooden

boat docks on either side of the ramp, each in good condition with minor damage and wear.

The east dock has an extended pier with a fish cleaning station in good condition, while the

west dock features wooden hand rails with no significant damage or wear. Signage at this site

is fair and could use improvements. Several of the signs are worn to the point they are illegible

and need replacement. The site has permanent restroom facilities which are in good condition,

although there was graffiti on both mirrors in the men’s facilities.

The site is in overall great condition, and could use only a few minor enhancements. (1)

Signage needs to be updated and improved upon. One or 2 signs need replacement while the

other signs simply need to be cleaned or repainted. Associated costs for signage improvements

are low, estimated to be less than $500. (2) Metal or wooden tie offs would be a beneficiary

feature to have at this site, and could easily be installed for minimal costs of roughly $200.

Along with tie offs, adding rubber bumpers to the dock itself would be a great option, which

would require little expense and man power. (3) While the parking lot was given an excellent

rating for its quality ranking, some of the lines are faded and could use a fresh coat of paint.

This would again, be at minimal cost to site managers and enhance aesthetic value of the

facility.

Overall, this site is ranked 9th for average quality ranking and 8th for total average quality

ranking. Most of the features are in good condition and could use minor repair at minimal

costs. One other consideration for this site would be to add a line or buoy representing the

bottom of the concrete boat ramp. One site out of all 26 sites assessed during this project had

this feature, and added superb value to the site.

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21

Copano Bay State Fishing Pier – South

Aransas County

Location (28.113419, -97.025502)



Copano Bay State Fishing Pier is located off TX-35 on the south side of Copano Bay. The boat

ramps provide direct access to Copano Bay and serves a substantial volume of boaters

throughout the year.

There are 2 concrete boat ramps at this site, the south ramp measuring at 20’6” and the north

ramp at an even 20’. Each ramp has a relatively shallow slope of 5° and is separated by a

wooden dock. The boat ramps are in excellent condition with little to no signs of wear or

damage. There are 3 wooden boat docks, 1 on each side of the boat ramps, with minor damage

and wear. The center dock is missing 1 board at the end of the dock, and several of the boards

have been damaged at their tips. There is a concrete pier at this site as well, in good condition

with minimal damage. The parking lot is concrete and in good condition, although needs to be

repainted as the lines have dulled significantly. The concrete access ramp is in excellent

condition, while the hand rails and signage both appear good with minor damage and wear. A

permanent restroom facility was built at this site, in good condition and properly maintained.

The site does not feature metal tie offs or boat slips, however offers wooden pilings as a means

to tie a vessel up.

Enhancements at this site include (1) minor maintenance and repair issues with the boat dock,

parking lot, and restrooms. Two of the boat docks require replacement boards, which is can be

bought and installed with minimal cost and effort. (2) The parking lot lines need to be

repainted, both near the boat ramp and throughout the lot. This task can be easily achieved by

site managers or through a 3rd party at little cost. (3) Restrooms simply need to be cleaned and

graffiti needs to be removed from the facilities. (4) Recommended updates to the site include

the addition of cleats (metal, rubber, or wooden) for ties offs. While the boat docks currently

have wooden pilings for vessel tie offs, cleats allow easier access for operators and make the

docks more efficient, requiring minimal costs for purchase and installation.

Overall, this site is ranked as the 10th best for average quality ranking, and 9th for total quality

ranking. All features present at this site are either in good or excellent condition and require

little to no maintenance. One additional feature added to this site which could provide

outstanding value to other boat ramps throughout the coast was the identification of the end

of concrete boat ramp by both sign and paint, on each side of the ramp.

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23

Cove Harbor

Aransas County

Location (27.992369, -97.073030)



Cove Harbor has 2 public boat ramps located on Cove Harbor at the south side of Rockport, off

Business Highway 35. The ramps offer access to Aransas Bay through Cove Harbor, and is

adjacent to Paradise Key Dockside Bar and Grill.

The concrete boat ramps at this site are both wide at 27’4” and 27’7”, with a relatively steep

slope of 10°. The ramps show minor signs of wear and damage, including several cracks less

than 1” wide. The ramps are divided by a wooden boat dock and surrounded by 2 other docks

on each side of the ramps. Other than one wooden board missing from the end of the center

dock, the docks are in good condition with minor wear. There are 22 metal cleats for tie offs on

the 3 docks in good condition. The site features a concrete access ramp and aluminum hand

rails which are both in excellent condition and appear to be new. The parking lot is large,

capable of holding approximately 120 cars, and features appropriate signage with minimal

wear. Finally, this site offers a permanent restroom facility which appears to be in working

order.

This site offers many features, all in good or excellent condition. The only current features

which require immediate attention are the center boat dock and the signage. (1) The boat dock

only needs 1 piece of wood at the end of the dock, and could be replaced easily with almost no

cost. (2) As for signage, the Boat Ramp Rules sign adjacent to the boat ramp needs to be

repainted, as it is showing signs of wear. Features which might enhance this boat ramp include

rubber bumpers along the docks and construction of boat slips. (3) Rubber bumpers are

relatively cheap and could offer great value to the docks, as much of the wear is found along

the inside where boats seem to have damaged them. (4) Adding boat slips to this site would be

a semi-costly effort which would involve 3rd party labor and involvement. Construction of a

wooden boat slip would require a high level of expense, so depending on the financial situation

for site managers this may or may not be an option.

Overall, this site is ranked 4th for average quality ranking and 3rd for total average quality

ranking. The site requires little to no maintenance and is being maintained very well. While

some additional features like rubber bumpers might immediately enhance the site for little

expense, other projects like addition of boat slips would require much more planning and

expense.

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25

Navigation Boat Ramp

Aransas County

Location (28.060260, -97.033520)



The Navigation Boat Ramp is located at the end of West Palmetto Avenue in Fulton. The ramp

offers access to Aransas Bay, and is protected by a concrete breakwater surrounding Fulton

Harbor. The site is overall relatively small, with minimal features and maintenance provided.

The concrete boat ramp at this site is average width at about 20’9”, with a slope of 8°. The

ramp has several large cracks about 1” wide, but otherwise is in good condition. The site

features 1 wooden dock, in good condition with only minor damage, extending from a concrete

base which could also be used to board a boat. The dock has a small flight of stairs extending

downward from the concrete slab, although no hand rails or ramps are present. There is no

restroom facility at this site, and parking is limited to a grass lot across the street from the site,

which may hold up to 5 cars. Signage at this site is fair and could be improved upon, especially

the sign adjacent to the boat ramp which is faded and illegible.

There are a variety of options for possible enhancements at this site. (1) Construction or

designation of a provided parking area is absolutely needed and required. The grass lot

currently being used for parking at this site is unmaintained and has no signs or markings at all

that it is a provided parking area. Installation of a parking lot would be a costly endeavor at this

location, with minimal options for available areas. Signage which would explain the parking

situation and provide direction to appropriate designated areas for parking, would be much

cheaper and feasible to accomplish. (2) This site needs to add restroom facilities, as there are

none present. A simple portable toilet would suffice at this location, and would cost a low-

moderate amount for annual expenses. (3) This site needs to add or modify its use of signage.

Only 1 sign can be legibly read on site, and is located near the boat dock. Additional signage is

needed for parking and to identify the boat ramp and surrounding area. Signage for this area

could be installed at low levels of expense.

Overall, this site is ranked 15th for average quality ranking score and 17th for total average

quality ranking The site could use some maintenance related issues, to fix up the signage and

perhaps fill the cracks in the boat ramp. Additional features, such as designated parking and

restroom facilities could improve this site greatly and add much value to it.

26

27

Goose Island State Park

Aransas County

Location (28.128569, -96.985629)



Goose Island State Park has 1 boat ramp found along the main entrance road of the state park.

The ramp provides direct access to St. Charles and Aransas Bays, although the site requires an

entrance fee to use the facilities.

The boat ramp at this facility is concrete and 29’6” wide, with a somewhat steep slope of

approximately 9°. The ramp itself is in good condition, although there are several large cracks

at least 1” wide stretching across from end to end. There is also excessive algae growth just

below the waterline on the ramp, a potential hazard for slippery tires. The site features 2 boat

docks, 1 wooden in good condition and 1 concrete in fair condition. The wooden dock features

rubber bumpers, a great and simple enhancement which protects both boats and the dock

itself. The concrete dock, adjacent to the ramp, has a badly damaged bulkhead which needs

immediate repair. Although badly damaged, the dock continues to serve its purpose with little

hazards to users. The site has a smaller scale parking lot, featuring approximately 14 spaces.

There are several large potholes in the parking lot which need repair, otherwise the lot is in

good condition. The signage for this site is also in good condition, although several of the signs

could use replacement or cleaning.

Enhancements to this site include (1) Repair of the concrete boat dock is needed, for both

aesthetic value and general safety precautions. Damage repair for the small area of concrete

would require low-moderate expenses. (2) Installation of a restroom facility, preferably

permanent, in the immediate area of the boat ramp. Construction of a new restroom facility at

this site would require a high level of expense, but significantly benefit the overall quality of the

site. Portable toilets would also be a viable option with much less expense, however

permanent facilities would better serve a state park. (3) Tie downs, metal/rubber/wooden

cleats on the boat dock is another viable feature for enhancement of this site, and could be

bought and installed with little expense or manpower.

Overall, the features currently present at this site are in good condition. The site ranks at 12th

on the average quality ranking and 19th for total average quality ranking. There are several key

missing features which could serve to enhance the overall quality of the site, mentioned in the

previous paragraph.

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29

Rockport Beach Boat Ramp

Aransas County

Location (28.030981, -97.038733)



The boat ramps at this site are located within Rockport Beach Park and requires an entrance fee

unless a vehicle is towing a boat and will be using the ramp facilities. The site offers direct

access to Little Bay, leading into Aransas Bay, and is managed by the City of Rockport and

affiliates.

There are a total of 4 boat ramps at this site, each ramp relatively narrow with shallow slopes,

separated by a concrete barrier. The 2 outside ramps are slightly wider than the inside ramps,

with widths of 11’8”and 11’9” for the outside and 11’4” and 11’5” for the inside. The ramps

have several large potholes needing immediate attention, along with damaged concrete

bulkheads on either side. There is a long wooden boat dock next to the boat ramp in good

condition with minimal wear and damage that also features several wooden benches. The

parking lot is fairly large with a capacity of approximately 50 cars, and seems to be in good

shape, along with the permanent facility restrooms which are located just west of the lot.

Multiple signs can be found throughout this site, most in good shape with little wear or

damage.

For enhancements, this site needs (1) immediate attention toward the boat ramps and

concrete bulkheads which are damaged. Filling the holes and patching up the bulkhead would

require low-moderate level of expense. The concrete bulkheads also need some sort of

bumper system, preferably rubber, to protect them and the boats who get too close. (2) Next,

the access ramp leading to the boat dock needs hand rails of some sort, whether metal or

wood, to support handicap and the disabled. Construction of hand rails is relatively

inexpensive, but may require a 3rd party for technical support. (3) Although there are wooden

pilings featured throughout the dock, installation of cleats used as tie offs could enhance the

site as they are often preferred and easier to use. (4) Finally, the parking lot needs to be

repainted as most of the lines are faded and difficult to see. This feat could be achieved with

little expense by site managers.

Overall this site is just below average and ranked at 16th for average quality ranking and 18th for

total average quality ranking. With repairs to the boat ramp and addition of a few

enhancements, the site could easily become one of the best in Aransas County.

30

31

St. Charles Bay Boat Ramp

Aransas County

Location (28.142046, -96.976335)



St. Charles Bay boat ramp is located in Lamar, TX near the Lamar Beach Street/4th Street

intersection. The ramp provides access to the south side of St. Charles Bay, near the opening to

Aransas Bay.

There is 1 concrete boat ramp at this site which is considerably wide at 28’10”, with a slope of

9°. The ramp is in good condition with only a few minor cracks to the concrete and minor

damage to a wooden bumper along the bulkhead. There is also large buildup of algae below

the waterline which could be considered a hazard. The site features 1 wooden boat dock and 1

concrete dock. The concrete dock features rubber bumpers and is in good condition, while the

wooden dock looks to have had recent repairs and is in excellent condition. The wooden dock

has a total of 12 cleats, 9 wooden and 3 metal which are all in good condition. There are

wooden steps leading the wooden boat dock which serve as the access ramp and provide

wooden and aluminum hand rails for ease of access. Also, there are 2 boat slips featured at this

site with rubber tires lining the inside, acting as bumpers against the boat dock. The boat slips

are in excellent condition and look to have been recently repaired with the rest of the boat

dock.

This site features 9 out of the 11 features which were inventoried during data collection, and

has one of the highest total average quality ranking scores. Improvements to current

conditions of this site include (1) repairing the bulkhead adjacent to the boat ramp, which

would be inexpensive and not require a great deal of labor. (2) The algae needs removal from

the ramp as well, allowing better grip and friction for boaters as they pull out of the ramp. (3)

There are also several potholes along the parking lot which need repair, easily fixed at minimal

costs. Enhancements for this site include (4) addition of a restroom facility, preferably

permanent, although a portable toilet would serve just as well and require less expense. (5)

The site could also use a proper access ramp that extends down to the wooden boat dock,

despite the quality of the hand rails and access stairs currently featured. (6) Finally, the site

could use more signage, as there is presently 1 sign which is in great condition but extremely

small.

Overall, this site is ranked 5th for average quality ranking and 8th for total average quality

ranking. Other than a few minor repairs, the site looks to be in great condition overall.

Addition of a restroom facility would greatly enhance this site and add more convenience for

users.

32

33

Kaufer-Hubert Memorial Park

Kleberg County

Location (27.319350, -97.682278)



This site is located east of Riviera off Market Road 628, adjacent to the Seawind Campgroud.

The boat ramp offers access to the Cayo del Grullo and Baffin Bay, supporting an average

amount of users annually.

There are 2 boat ramps featured at this site, the north ramp at a width of 25’ and a slope of 10°,

and the south ramp at a width of 25’8” and a slope of 13°. Each of the ramps are concrete and

have a few minor cracks but are in good condition overall. There are at total of 4 wooden docks

at this site, 2 docks at each of the boat ramps. The docks are in good condition with the

exception of 1 missing board on the most southern dock. The docks have rubber tires attached

acting as excellent bumpers against boat to dock collision, and also features 9 rubber tie downs

in good condition. The docks feature 2 boat slips as well which are in good condition. There is

a wooden fishing pier approximately 1000 feet from the ramp which is in good condition with

few signs of wear or damage. Signage at this site is good with little damage to any of the signs

and the permanent facility restrooms are in good working order, although they are located

approximately 0.5 mile from the ramp. The parking lot and has a capacity of roughly 65 cars

and is in fair condition due to a number of large, greater than 1’, potholes found throughout the

lot.

This site features many amenities, most of which require little to no repair, however some

maintenance issues need attention. (1) The parking lot’s extensive set of potholes needs to be

addressed and repaired as soon as possible. Filling in these holes would take some expense

which may require 3rd party involvement, with moderate expenses. (2) The southern-most boat

dock needs to replace the 1 missing board as it is currently a safety hazard for children and the

disabled. Enhancements to this site would include (3) installation of a set of handrails at each

of the wooden access ramps, to provide ease of access for disabled and handicap individuals.

(4) The site could also use closer restrooms, and perhaps install a set of portable toilets on the

north side of the parking lot, again for ease of access.

Overall this site in good condition and ranks 14th among all other sites assessed for average

quality ranking and 5th for total average quality ranking. The site features 10 out of the 11

amenities which were assessed for this project, most of which are in good condition with the

exception of the parking lot. Repairs of moderate expense along with the few enhancements

mentioned would allow this site to further provide for users and increase the quality of the site.

34

35

Bird Island Basin, Padre Island National Seashore

Kleberg County

Location (27.473211, -97.309289)



This site is located at Padre Island National Seashore, on Bird Island Road off the main entrance

road. The site offers direct access to Laguna Madre and has a high volume of users annually,

with peaks during the summer months.

Bird Island Basin features the widest boat ramp along the Coastal Bend, with a width of 87’80”

and an extremely shallow slope of 4°. The ramp is concrete with a few minor cracks and holes,

but overall in good condition. There is a wooden/plastic boat dock along the south side of the

ramp in good condition, featuring wooden pilings with rubber bumpers attached. The dock also

has 6 wooden cleats for tie offs, along with a concrete access ramp which are all in good

condition. The site has a wooden pier with a fish cleaning station, just south of the boat dock,

in good condition. Parking at this site is extensive, with a capacity of 122 cars on paved asphalt

which is in good to excellent condition. There is a permanent facility restroom located at this

site as well, in excellent condition.

This site features most amenities critiqued during the project assessment, and could mostly use

minor repair to some of the current facilities. (1) The boat ramp needs repair for some of the

potholes located just below the waterline. Filling these holes would require 3rd party

involvement and require a low-moderate level of expense. (2) The site could use addition of

boat slips which would provide better ease of access for users, especially those disabled

somehow. The boat slips could be constructed on the north side of the ramp, or the south side

extending from the pier. Total construction costs for installation of 6 boat slips would require a

high level of expense. (3) Although the site has wooden pilings on the boat dock which could

serve as hand rails, installation of actual metal or wooden rails could benefit disabled users who

strongly rely on supportive features.

Overall, this site is ranked 11th out of all other Coastal Bend facilities for average quality

ranking, and 10th for total average quality ranking. The site can use some minor repair to the

boat ramp itself, along with a few additional enhancements in order to increase the value of its

facilities. If this site were to make the recommended repairs and enhancements, it could easily

be ranked among the top 5 sites for the Coastal Bend.

36

37

Billings Bait & Tackle

Nueces County

Location (27.634028, -97.236242)



This site is located off the JFK Causeway in Corpus Christi, under the bridge over Laguna Madre.

The site offers direct access to Laguna Madre and the Gulf of Mexico through Packery Channel,

and experiences regular busy days throughout the year.

There is 1 concrete boat ramp featured at this site, at approximately 29’6” with a slope of about

8°. The ramp is in good condition, with minor cracks and excess algae located below the

waterline. There are 2 concrete boat docks on either side of the boat ramp, each with rubber

bumpers along the bulkheads and a total of 9 metal cleats for tie offs, all in excellent condition.

The access ramp leading to the dock is also concrete and in excellent condition, featuring 2

aluminum handrails per ramp with some corrosion, in good condition. Parking at this location is

variable, with a mix of concrete, gravel, and asphalt parking areas throughout the site. On

average, these areas are in good condition and hold anywhere from 50-100 cars. Signage at

this facility is excellent, featuring a number of signs in outstanding condition.

Minor repairs to current features are needed at this site to (1) remove the corrosion from the

handrails, and (2) to replace the missing steps on 2 ladders at the end of the boat dock. These

repairs would require minimal cost and effort. (3) The parking areas also need signage to

properly designate and distinguish them from areas off limits to public parking. This set of

repairs would again require minimal cost and effort, although will be slightly more expensive

than repairing the hand rails and ladder. (4) The boat ramp also needs general cleanup of the

sea grass and algae which has collected in excess. (5) Enhancements to this site include

installation of a restroom facility, preferably portable toilets. To install 2 portable toilets near

this facility, an estimated $2400 would be needed for annual expense. (6) The site could also

use a set of boat slips, possibly extending from either boat dock. Construction and installation

of 4 boat slips at this location would require a high level of expense and have to consider rite of

passage through Packery Channel.

Overall this site is extremely well maintained and in very good condition, ranked 3rd for average

quality ranking and 11th for total average quality ranking among all other Coastal Bend counties.

Other than some general cleanup and minor maintenance issues, this site could use little work.

Addition of restrooms is the most recommended enhancement for this site, considered due to

priority and overall usage of the site.

38

39

Clem’s Marina

Nueces County

Location (27.634903, -97.238146)



This site is located off the JFK Causeway, under the bridge over Laguna Madre, adjacent to

Billings Bait & Tackle. The site receives regular high volumes of users throughout the year, with

peak volumes occurring during the summer months.

The ramp at this facility is slightly smaller than the Billings Bait & Tackle at a width of 22’ and a

slope of 5°. Other than a few minor cracks and some excess algae growth below the water line,

the ramp is in good condition. The ramp, similar to Billings’s ramp, has 2 concrete boat docks

on either side of the ramp in excellent condition. Each of the ramps feature rubber bumpers

and a total of 14 metal cleats with no signs of wear or damage. Access to the dock is provided

via concrete ramp with aluminum hand rails that have a moderate level of corrosion. Signage is

excellent at this facility, featuring a number of signs all in great condition with little sign of

wear. The parking situation is similar to Billings Bait & Tackle, consisting of a mix of concrete,

gravel, and asphalt with a capacity of about 30-50 cars. There are no public restrooms featured

at this location.

Facilities at this boat ramp need (1) general cleanup for excess seagrass and algae, along with

(2) removal of corrosion from the handrails. This can be accomplished through site managers

with minimal effort. (3) Replacement ladder steps are needed for each of the ladders at the

end of the docks, requiring minimal cost for purchase or installation. (4) Enhancements to this

site would include installation of a set of portable restroom facilities, as there are none present.

Installation of 2 portable toilets (1 male 1 female) is estimated at $2400 for annual expenses.

(5) Finally, construction of boat slips or a pier would enhance the value of this facility. Boat

slips would be ideal at this location, considering the high volume of boaters that use this facility,

although there is limited area to work with greatly limiting the potential of this feature. A small

pier on the other hand, could be constructed and added to this location for public fishing

efforts and additional access to boats after launch. Construction of a pier or boat slip would

require a high level of expense.

Overall this site is well managed and in good condition, ranking 7th for average quality ranking

and 13th for total average quality ranking among all other counties. Other than minor

maintenance issues, this site could most benefit from the addition of portable restroom

facilities, installed and maintained at moderate levels of expense. Addition of a pier would also

increase the value of this site, although would require a moderate-high level of expense for

construction.

40

41

Conn Brown’s Harbor Point Park

Nueces County

Location (27.899729, -97.136472)



This site is located at the end of Bigelow Street in Aransas Pass, and provides direct access into

Redfish Bay.

There are a total of 4 concrete boat ramps at this facility, each ramp considerably wide at

approximately 28’ with slopes of about 6°. The most southern ramp (ramp on far left facing

the water) is slightly narrower than the other 3 ramps, at about 27’8”, and has the same slope

of 6°. All 4 ramps are in excellent condition with little to no signs of wear or damage

whatsoever, although the northern ramp (ramp on far right facing the water) is currently closed

and taped off for dredging projects. There is a boat dock on each side of the 4 ramps, for a

total of 5 docks. The outer 2 and center docks are made of wood and in excellent condition,

featuring metal cleats for tie offs. The 2 to other docks are made of aluminum and wood,

featuring metal cleats for tie offs, rubber bumpers, and an access ramp with aluminum

handrails. The aluminum docks are also in excellent condition, with the exception of 1 rubber

bumper piece which has come unattached at its bottom. A total of 32 metal cleats are featured

throughout the 5 docks, along with the 4 aluminum hand rails, all in excellent condition. The

site features 1 wooden boat slip as well, connected to the north boat dock, in good condition.

Signage at this location is great, featuring multiple signs with little to no wear and appropriately

placed. There is a wooden fishing pier at this site as well, considerably large and in good

condition. Permanent facility restrooms are found at this site, which appear to be in good

condition with the exception of minor graffiti and wear inside the building. The parking area is

asphalt and large, with a capacity of approximately 95 marked parking spaces. The lot has a

few minor potholes, but is in relatively good condition.

This site requires few, if any, enhancements of facilities other than repair and maintenance of

minor issues. (1) The parking lot needs some patchwork for a few potholes located throughout

the lot, which would be minor but might require 3rd party assistance. (2) The only

enhancement recommended for this site is the addition of a line or marker revealing the

bottom of the concrete ramp as a hazard sign. This would be of little to no expense, requiring

either a sign or paint to be installed easily by a site manager.

Overall, this is the 2nd best site out of the average total quality ranking, and the best site out of

the total average quality ranking scores. The site is maintained very well and could use only

limited enhancements to increase the value of its facilities.

42

43

Coopers Alley L-Head

Nueces County

Location (27.791574, -97.389489)



This site is located in downtown Corpus Christi, at the west end of Coopers Alley. The site

offers access into the Corpus Christi Marina area, behind the rock breakwater, and Corpus

Christi Bay.

The site features 3 concrete boat ramps, 1 wide ramp in the middle at 30’8” with 2 narrower

ramps alongside at 15’4”. All 3 ramps have slopes of about 7°, and are in excellent condition

with almost no signs of wear or damage at all; however, the western ramp (ramp on the left)

currently has caution tape blocking the ramp due to submerged debris, which is due for

removal sometime in the near future. The ramps feature 2 boat docks between the large and

small ramps made of aluminum, wood, and plastic, featuring 24 metal cleats for tie offs and

rubber bumpers on all sides of the docks. The docks are all in excellent condition with no signs

of damage whatsoever. Access to the docks are provided via aluminum ramp extending from

the concrete ramp area, which is also in excellent condition. Signage at this location is great,

with multiple signs featuring a plethora of information about hazards and general standards for

the area. The asphalt parking area is in good condition and can hold approximately 60 vehicles.

Restrooms at this site are a permanent facility which is in fair to good condition. All facilities

seem to be in working order, however the restrooms general appearance could use some

upkeep and repair.

This site could only use a few enhancements, along with some general repair/maintenance

issues. (1) The aluminum access ramps featured could use a set of handrails, preferably

aluminum, to provide additional safety and support for those disabled. Installation of handrails

would be a minimal expense, possibly requiring involvement from a 3rd party. (2) The site could

also use boat slips for additional ease of access, along the eastern dock. There are many boat

slips featured along the marina, however all of them require a monthly rental fee for the space.

The recommended boat slip additions would be for public use only, and require no fees. (3)

Minor maintenance issues that need addressed are the restroom facilities, requiring general

clean up and possibly a fresh coat of paint to increase aesthetic value.

Overall, this site ranks 1st for the average quality ranking score and 6th for total average quality

ranking. Most features at this site are in excellent condition, requiring only minimal

maintenance efforts for upkeep. Additional enhancements recommended could increase the

value of these facilities at moderate-high level of expense.

44

45

Marinaville

Nueces County

Location (27.837337, -97.381137)



This site is located off West Causeway Boulevard on North Beach, Corpus Christi, adjacent to

the Nueces Causeway. The site offers access directly into Nueces Bay and is near the outlet to

Corpus Christi Bay.

The site has 1 concrete boat ramp, although much of it is covered in sand, at a width of

approximately 20’ and a slope of about 4°. The ramp has a few minor cracks and a large

buildup of algae below the water line, with an overall good condition. There are 2 wooden boat

docks at this site featuring 5 metal cleats, all in good condition. The west dock (on the left

facing the water) is extremely narrow and features no handrails whatsoever. The access ramp

to the docks is concrete and in good condition, but again features no handrails. Signage at this

site is fair, with only a few signs posted that the site is a public boat ramp. Most signage on site

is associated with parking fees to the adjacent marina named Marinaville. The parking lot is a

gravel/sand mix, however there are no marked spaces which are free of charge, according to

the Marinaville marina’s posted signage. There is 1 portable restroom facility located at this

site, next to the boat ramp in good working order.

This site is fairly well maintained and could use several enhancements and repairs done to

current features. (1) Sand and excess algae on the boat ramp need to be removed as soon as

possible. Although there is a significant amount of sand build up on the ramp, it would not

require a great deal of expense or time for removal. (2) The access ramps and boat docks need

to install handrails for ease of access and safety of the disabled and for young children.

Installation of 2 sets of handrails would require a low level of expense. (3) Signage for this site

definitely needs updating, with clear indications that the ramp is of public use with no charge

for any of the facilities. Installation of signage is relatively cheap with an estimated value of

$100 per sign. Finally, the parking situation for this site needs to be addressed. According to

the Marinaville marina signs, all parking in the lot requires a fee paid to the marina. However,

this is a public facility and no charge should be applied in the immediate area of the ramp. Site

managers should rectify this issue as soon as possible.

Overall this site ranks 17th for average quality ranking and 16th for total average quality ranking

among the Coastal Bend counties. A low-moderate level of expense is required for general

enhancements and upkeep of facilities.

46

47

Dennis Dryer Municipal Harbor

Nueces County

Location (27.839042, -97.068159)



This site is located between the Port Aransas Ferry and Robert Points Park in Port Aransas,

offering access to the Gulf of Mexico, Redfish Bay, and Corpus Christi Bay through the Corpus

Christi Channel.

There are 4 large boat ramps at this site, with approximate widths of 38’, 35’10”, 37’2”, and

38’11” from north to south (left to right facing water), and respective slopes of 4°, 9°, 6°, and

8°. The ramps are all concrete and in fair condition, with large cracks greater than 1” found

throughout each of the 4 ramps. There are also several large holes in the ramps, greater than

1’. There are 2 wooden boat docks featured at this site, 1 on each end of the ramps, which are

in fair condition. The south dock has several missing boards and a few loose boards that move

upon walking over them. Some damage was seen to the north dock as well, including loose

boards, warped boards, and damaged wood. The south boat dock features 4 wooden boat slips

which are in fair condition as well, including 8 metal cleats for tie offs. The site features

wooden stairs on the south dock and a metal ramp on the north dock, each with aluminum

hand rails all in good condition. The parking area for this site is largest out of all other sites

assessed, with a capacity of approximately 150 vehicles. However, the lot itself is in fair

condition with several large potholes greater than 1’ wide. Signage was fair at this site and

difficult to read due to extensive damage and wear. There are permanent facility restrooms

located at this site that appear to be in good working order and condition.

Enhancements to this site first should be focused on the most essential feature, the boat ramp.

(1) The ramp needs repair on all the large cracks and holes found throughout it, as well as the

bulkhead along the side of the outer ramps. This repair is of moderate cost, requiring 3rd party

involvement and moderate time for labor. (2) The parking area also needs similar work done to

its extensive set of potholes and damaged road conditions. Expenses for repairing parking

damage are low-moderate. (3) The boat dock needs replacement of most boards which are

either warped, loosed, badly damaged, or missing. Replacement of these boards would be of

minimal-moderate expense and time, likely requiring 3rd party involvement. (4) Finally, signage

at this site needs to be repainted or replaced, as all of the signs are currently extremely worn

and difficult to read.

Overall, this site is ranked 21st for average quality ranking and 15th for total average quality

ranking. The site could use several maintenance/repair enhancements for current features

present, such as the boat ramp, boat dock, and signage.

48

49

Fin & Feather Marina

Nueces County

Location (27.888706, -97.111961)



This site is located off Redfish Bay Causeway just south of Aransas Pass, offering direct access to

Red Fish Bay.

The site has 1 boat ramp which is fairly large, at a width of 30’6” and a shallow slope of

approximately 4°. The ramp is in fair condition with large cracks on the adjacent bulkhead and

large cracks on the ramp itself. There is an overgrown bush on the side of the ramp which has

grown over the ramp and become a hazard. There is 1 narrow concrete boat dock available

right next to the ramp in fair condition, with a large crack at the base of the dock. During the

assessment, the dock was submerged due to high tide, approximately 1’ below the water line.

Signage for the Fin & Feather Marina is good, however there is only 1 sign designating the site

as a public access point. Therefore signage for this site was considered to be fair. The parking

lot at this site is gravel/sand mix and in good condition, with no significant holes.

Enhancements to this site include (1) repairing the damaged boat ramp along the bulkhead. (2)

The concrete boat dock also needs to be repaired and perhaps raised a few feet, which could be

accomplished with moderate expenses and 3rd party involvement. (3) If repair was to be done

on the ramp and dock, an extended concrete access ramp would also be a feature to consider

installing which could add great value to the site and be constructed during repair operations.

(4) Finally, this site needs to add restrooms of some sort. The site has space available for

installation of a permanent facility, although portable toilets would suffice.

Overall, this site is ranked low among the other sites throughout the Coastal Bend at 23rd for

average quality ranking and 22nd for total average quality ranking. The site needs improvement

upon several features which are badly damaged, as well as extension of current features such

as the boat dock and access ramp. Essentially, 1 operation could repair the damaged ramp and

dock while also expanding the dock and access ramp.

50

51

Hazel Bazemore County Park

Nueces County

Location (27.867411, -97.639776)



This site is located on the northwest side of Calallen off County Road 69. The site provides

access to the Nueces River and is managed by Nueces County.

There is 1 small-average sized boat ramp at this site, at approximately 20’6” with a slope of

about 4°. The ramp has a large crack at its base, a few inches wide, along with a few minor

holes and in overall fair condition. There is no boat dock or access ramp featured at this site.

Limited parking is available, with a small 6 vehicle lot next to the ramp. The portable restroom

facilities are located approximately 0.5 mile from the ramp and in good condition. Signage for

this site is appropriately placed and in good condition.

This site needs (1) to repair the large crack along the boat ramp. (2) Then a boat dock of some

sort is needed, in order to allow access to the boat for all users. Not providing a boat dock

could potentially be very dangerous for both the boat and boater, as users will be forced to

climb into the boat from the back near the propeller, and the boat will have to be in very

shallow water to do this. Access for children, elderly, and the disabled is extremely limited

without a proper boat dock to easily load and unload. Installation of a boat dock would require

significant expense and 3rd party involvement, but would increase not only the value of this site,

but the safety of its features as well. (3) If adding a boat dock, other enhancements for the

dock itself would include cleats for tie offs, rubber bumpers, an access ramp of some sort, and

hand rails for the access ramp. Together, these features are reasonably inexpensive and would

require moderate labor for installation. (4) Finally, this site needs closer restroom facilities for

users. Portable toilets would work at this site, considering its location.

Overall this site is ranked 20th for average quality ranking and 23rd for total average quality

ranking, requiring a good deal of work for repairs and enhancements. The ramp repairs and

boat dock construction are undoubtedly at the top of the list for priority. Other features like

the tie offs, access ramp, and hand rails would increase the value of the facilities, but are

secondary and tertiary features. Again, the importance of constructing a boat dock cannot be

stressed enough at this site, for both safety and quality values.

52

53

Labonte Park

Nueces County

Location (27.895358, -97.628705)



This site is located off IH-37 at exit 16, just north of Corpus Christi, and provides access to the

Nueces River.

The site features 1 boat ramp of moderate size, at a width of 20’1” and a slope of about 9°. The

ramp is in fair condition, due to several large cracks throughout the ramp and a submerged

concrete block considered a hazard. There are 2 concrete boat docks at this site which are in

fair condition. Each of the docks slopes downward toward the water’s edge, a potential hazard

for users. There is also a large crack running through the west dock (right side facing the

water). A concrete access ramp is featured for each of the docks, also in fair condition due to

large cracks. There are approximately 15 spaces for parking at this site, on a gravel/asphalt mix

ground which has several large potholes and in fair condition. The access road for this site

however, was given an excellent rating and in great condition. A permanent facility restroom is

also available at this site, approximately 0.5 mile from the boat ramp.

(1) Enhancements to this site first need to focus on repairing the damaged boat ramp. This

would require low-moderate expenses and 3rd party involvement. (2) Repair or replacement of

the boat dock is also necessary, especially since the docks create some sort of a hazard with

their current profile. Replacement of the docks is estimated at a moderate-high level of

expense. (3) Secondary and tertiary features for the dock such as tie offs, bumpers, and hand

rails should also be considered. (4) The site needs to improve its parking area and patch the

extensive set of potholes throughout the designated area. These repairs would be at minimal-

moderate costs. (5) Additionally, the site could use closer restroom facilities, preferably

portable toilets, to enhance the quality of the facilities. Installation of 2 portable restrooms

would require an estimated $2400 annually.

Overall, this site ranks considerably low at 22th among all average quality ranking scores and

20th for total average quality ranking. The site needs repair on current ramp features as well as

major improvements on the condition of the boat docks and parking area. With moderate-high

expenses, these improvements may be accomplished thus increasing the value of this site.

54

55

Packery Channel

Nueces County

Location (27.618168, -97.212343)



This site is located off Zahn Road on Mustang Island in Corpus Christi. The site offers access to

the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre through Packery Channel, and is used regularly

throughout the year.

This site features 2 ramps composed of concrete blocks, as opposed to 1 solid concrete surface

on most other ramps assessed. The ramps are considerably wide at 31’11” and have a steep

slope of approximately 12°. The ramps appear to be in good condition, with only a few slightly

damaged blocks. There are 3 concrete boat docks at this site, each in good condition. The

docks have rubber bumpers around all sides, 32 metal cleats for tie offs, a concrete access

ramp, and aluminum hand rails which are all in good or excellent condition. The parking lot at

this site is asphalt with no major potholes and features a capacity of approximately 100

vehicles. There are 2 portable toilets in short walking distance from the boat ramp, both of

which are in good condition. Signage at this site needs definite improvement, as the only sign

for the ramp has missing letters and is illegible.

The current features at this site are all in good or excellent condition, with the exception of

signage. (1) Therefore, signage should be the first priority for this site, and needs to be totally

replaced. Estimates for 4-5 signs are $400-500. (2) Other enhancements this site could use

include addition of boat slips adjacent to the boat dock, to provide ease of access for boaters.

Construction of 4 boat slips would require moderate-high levels of expense. (3) Finally, this site

might consider adding a permanent restroom facility, being that it is large enough and receives

enough traffic to warrant one. Installation of a permanent facility restroom would require a

high level of expense but is best suited for this sites location.

Overall, this site is ranked 13th for average quality ranking score and 12th for total average

quality ranking. The site features many amenities, most of which are being well maintained

with little damage or sign of wear.

56

57

Aransas River Boat Ramp

Refugio County

Location (28.122381, -97.309834)



This site is located south of Woodsboro at the terminus of Aransas River Road, offering access

to Aransas River.

There is 1 boat ramp at this site, relatively narrow at 14’8” with a slope of 10°. The ramp is

concrete and has a few minor cracks, but no significant damage. The only hazard seen at the

ramp was the shallow depth of water surrounding the ramp and dock area. The 2 wooden boat

docks on either side of the ramp are both in poor condition with old deteriorating wood missing

multiple boards and unsafe for use. What looks to be a metal hand rail is found near the west

dock and severely corroded to the point it needs immediate replacement. There is 1 sign at this

site in poor-fair condition, although it is legible for the most part still serving its purpose. The

parking lot is a gravel/dirt mix with a capacity of about 20 vehicles, in overall good condition

with no holes or craters of any kind. Access to the site is also provided along a gravel/dirt road

which is in good condition.

The highest priority enhancement at this site is to (1) repair the damaged and unsafe boat

docks on both sides of the ramp. New wood is needed for many sections on top as well as for

support on both sides. Estimated costs for this repair is low-moderate. (2) The rusted hand rail

near the west dock needs to be removed and possibly replaced with new aluminum hand rails

closer to the docks. Expenses for 2 sets of hand rails are estimated at low costs. (3) Tie offs and

rubber bumpers are another feature this site might consider adding, which could be achieved

with little expense or time for installation. (4) This site needs a restroom facility of some sort,

preferably portable as the area is rural and at least 10 miles from the nearest town. Installation

of 1 portable toilet would be cost an estimated $1200 annually. (5) Finally, the signage needs

to be upgraded for this site. The current sign serves its purpose in informing boaters of safety

and regulation precautions, however its condition is fair and needs to be improved upon.

Overall, this is site is ranked 24th for average quality ranking score and 24th for total average

quality ranking. Enhancements for the boat docks are the highest priority, followed by

installation of hand rails, restrooms, and tie offs.

58

59

Austwell Community Park

Refugio County

Location (28.391676, -96.838368)



This site is located on the south end of Bay Street in Austwell, providing direct access to Hynes

Bay.

There is 1 concrete boat ramp at this site, reasonably small with a width of 14’10” and a slope

of 9°. The boat ramp is in excellent condition with little to no cracks at all and almost no algae

buildup. Two boat docks are featured along either side of the ramp made of composite wood.

The south dock (right dock facing the water) has 1 board missing at its terminus and 1 broken

board at its base, but is overall in good condition. The parking lot is a gravel/sand mix with a

capacity of approximately 30 vehicles, in overall fair shape due to several large potholes. The

gravel access road has several large holes as well greater than 1’ wide. Signage at this site is

fair, with only 1 sign available in decent condition.

Enhancements to this site should (1) first focus on repair of the access road and parking area.

The large holes need to be filled and several sections of the road need levelled. Estimated

expenses for these tasks are of low-moderate costs. (2) Replacement of the current sign along

with additional signage is needed at this site, accomplished with low-moderate funds of less

than $500 and little installation time. (3) Other features to consider adding are handrails along

the concrete access ramp for ease of access, along with tie offs for the boat dock. Each of these

features is relatively cheap to purchase and install. (4) Finally, this site needs a restroom

facility, likely portable at this location. Installation of a portable toilet is estimated at $1200

annually.

This site is ranked 18th for average quality ranking and 21st for total average quality ranking out

of the 26 sites assessed throughout the Coastal Bend. The necessary enhancements for this site

are repairing the access road, parking lot, and boat dock. Additional features should be given

consideration, like tie offs and handrails which are inexpensive and would add value and safety

to the site.

60

61

Texas Parks & Wildlife Boat Ramp

Refugio County

Location (28.077941, -97.221549)



This site is located south of Bayside off FM 136, providing direct access to Copano Bay. There is

a long concrete breakwater featured in front of the facilities at this site.

There are 2 boat ramps at this site with widths of 14’5” and 15’5”, both having slopes of

approximately 10°. The ramps are made of concrete, however there is a great amount of gravel

built up on top of them needing removal. Other than the gravel, the ramps are in good

condition. This site has 3 boat docks, all of which are in poor condition and unsafe for use. The

boat docks are wooden and have most of their boards missing, with large gaps between the

remaining boards. The parking lot is in fair condition, with several large potholes found

throughout the area greater than 1’. Other than the access road, which is in good condition,

there are no other features at this site.

(1) Enhancements to this site should first address replacing all 3 wooden boat docks.

Replacements costs for each of the boat docks require a high level of expense, however is

essential for the safety of this boat ramp. (2) The parking lot needs to be repaired, filling in all

the large holes and craters. A 3rd party would be required for this project at low-moderate level

of expense. (3) Signage is needed at this site, being as there is not 1 sign identifying the site

anywhere. Installation of 4-5 signs for this site would cost an estimated $400-500.

(4) Restroom facilities are also needed at this site, preferably portable as this site is obviously

not well maintained and requires easy to manage facilities. Installation of 1 portable toilet is

estimated at a value of $1200 annually. Other feature enhancements not available at this site

like an access ramp, tie offs, and hand rails could be added with little expense.

This site is the worst assessed site out of all 26 sites assess throughout the Coastal Bend. The

site ranks last for both average quality ranking and total average quality ranking. The highest

priority enhancement is undoubtedly replacing the wooden docks, followed by repairing the

parking lot. Other enhancements like installation of proper signage and portable restroom

facilities would greatly increase the value and use of this site. Additional features for the boat

dock like an access ramp, tie offs, and hand rails would also greatly benefit the facilities at

minimal expense.

62

63

Cove Park

San Patricio County

Location (27.837703, -97.220411)



This site is located on the south side of Ingleside off County Road 1069 (Main Street), providing

access to Ingleside Cove and Corpus Christi Bay.

There are 2 smaller than average boat ramps at this site, with widths of approximately 16’ and

steep slopes of 12°. The ramps are in fair condition due to several large potholes at the top of

the ramp. Other than these few large holes, the ramp is in overall good condition. The site has

3 wooden boat docks all in good condition with few signs of minor wear or damage to the

wood. The docks have a total of 7 metal cleats, many of which are loose or completely

unattached from the dock, in overall fair condition. One of the docks extends to a pier

featuring a fish cleaning station. The north dock (far right dock) has a wooden access ramp

connected from the parking lot with wooden hand rails, all in good condition. Parking at this

site is fair, with a capacity of approximately 50 vehicles. The parking area has several large

potholes greater than 1’, needing repair. This site has permanent facility restrooms which are

in fair condition due to the damaged water fountains in front. One of the water fountains at

the restrooms has loose wiring and parts exposed, a potential hazard for children or pets. The

other fountain has minor damage, but looks to be in deteriorating conditions. Finally, signs at

this site are in good condition and appropriately placed throughout the area.

Repairs at this site should (1) first focus on repairing the large holes at the top of the boat ramp,

along with the concrete bulkhead adjacent to the ramp. These repairs would require 3rd party

involvement and low-moderate expenses. The parking area needs repair as well to fill in the

large holes throughout the lot, also requiring 3rd party involvement at low-moderate expenses.

The restroom water fountains need replacement at least for the exposed fountain, which could

be accomplished with low-moderate costs. While many of the metal cleats are loose or

unattached, they are not damaged to the point they need replacement. Simply re-installing

these tie offs would resolve this issue with no cost and minimal effort by site managers. Other

enhancements which could enhance this site are rubber bumpers for the wooden docks, and a

sign or marking showing the extent of the boat ramp in the water, similar to Copano Bay State

Park’s markers. Purchase and installation of both features is relatively cheap with minimal

effort for installation.

Overall, this site is ranked 19th for average quality ranking score and 14th for the total average

quality ranking score. The site is in fairly good condition, with only a few maintenance issues

that need resolved such as the boat ramp, parking lot, restrooms, and tie offs.

64

65

Ransom Road Park

San Patricio County

Location (27.888919, -97.146619)



This site is located at the terminus of Ransom Road in Aransas Pass, offering access to Stedman

Reef, Ransom Island Channel, and Redfish Bay.

There is 1 large boat ramp featured at this site with a width of 37’ and a slope of approximately

5°. The ramp is has minor cracks and a bumpy surface, but is in overall good condition with no

significant damage. There is 1 wooden boat dock on each side of the ramp, each in good-

excellent condition with little to no sign of wear or damage. The docks feature wooden

bumpers, 13 metal cleats for tie offs, and 4 boat slips (on the south ramp, right facing water) all

in good condition. The site also features a massive wooden pier with access ramps, used for

fishing and wildlife observation. Signage is excellent, featuring multiple signs all in great

condition. There are permanent facility restrooms between the parking lot and boat ramp

which appear to be in good condition with everything in working order. The parking lot has a

capacity of about 20 vehicles and is in good condition, although the access road has several

large holes needing repair, and is in fair condition.

(1) This site first needs to repair the access road’s extensive set of holes near the parking lot

exit. Repair would require 3rd party involvement at moderate costs, but is needed soon as

lower profile vehicles are bound to bottom out and possibly receive damage. (2) As for

enhancements, this site has most features, all in good or excellent condition, with the exception

of hand rails. Installing hand rails along the access ramp, near the boat docks would provide

safety and ease of access for the disabled who need support while traversing dock. Handrails

are relatively inexpensive and would not take much to install. (3) Finally, this site could easily

set up a marker showing the extent of the boat ramp, where the concrete ends, for the safety

of boaters while backing trailers. This site has an extended dock along the ramp on both sides,

so a simple paint line or sign along the dock would suffice. Either method would require

minimal expense for installation.

Overall this site is ranked 6th out of all other sites assessed for the average quality ranking score

and 2nd for the total average quality ranking score. The site features many amenities, all of

which are in good or excellent condition, and is well maintained by site managers.

66

67

San Patricio County Navigation District #1

San Patricio County

Location (27.890059, -97.148833)



This site is located on Ransom Road in Aransas Pass, next to Hampton’s Landing. The site offers

access to the San Patricio Navigation District, Stedman Reef, Ransom Island Channel, and

Redfish Bay.

There are 2 concrete boat ramps at this site, each with an approximate width of 13’8” and a

slope of about 5°. The ramps are in fair condition with several large holes and cracks needing

repair. A long wooden boat dock separates the 2 ramps which is in excellent condition showing

no signs of wear or damage. The dock has 6 metal cleats for tie offs and provides wooden hand

rails with stairs for a point of access in excellent condition. The parking lot is in good condition

with a capacity of approximately 40 vehicles. The site also features a small pier with a fish

cleaning station which appears to be in good shape. Signage at this site is excellent, with

multiple signs all appearing new, showing no signs of wear.

(1) The first issue to address at this site is repair of the damaged boat ramps. The holes need to

be filled and levelled, requiring 3rd party involvement at low-moderate costs. (2) Enhancements

that would benefit this site include addition of a restroom, preferably a permanent facility for

this location. Construction of a permanent facility restroom would require a high level of

expense, but greatly add to the value of this site. (3) The site could also benefit from addition

of an access ramp to replace the wooden stairs, providing ease of access for the disabled and

handicap. Construction of an access ramp would require low-moderate to moderate expenses,

depending on the materials (wood or concrete). Site managers would have to determine what

kind of ramp would best suit the site, however a concrete ramp would require the least amount

of maintenance once built. (4) Another enhancement worth considering is the addition of

rubber bumpers along the long concrete bulkhead that extends past the dock. The area

between the docks and the concrete bulkhead is extremely narrow, about as wide as the ramp,

and could use some sort of bumper system, whether rubber tires or rubber bumpers. (5)

Finally, the site could benefit from a marker showing the extent of the boat ramp for safety

precaution.

This site is ranked at 8th overall for the average quality ranking and 7th for the total average

quality ranking. The features currently present at this site are for the most part in good

condition, with minor repair needed only at the boat ramp. Addition of restrooms, an access

ramp, rubber bumpers and additional signage may enhance this site and add value to its

quality.

68

69

Analysis

The 26 public boat ramps assessed along the Coastal Bend have a great degree of variability

among available amenities and quality of such features. While all the sites required boat ramps

to be considered as part of this assessment, many lack other key features which have the

potential to add great value to their sites and facilities. Restrooms, for instance, were only

found at 58% of the facilities inspected, with about half of those facilities being permanent and

the other half being portable. Proper hand rails were only found at 42% of all the sites

assessed, a feature which may increase safety and ease of access for disabled users. The

availability of amenities like restrooms and hand rails may strongly persuade boaters from

visiting a site, depending on the boater. A further breakdown of the percentage of sites with

given features is found on Appendix I.

The 26 sites assessed also have a wide range of quality for both average quality ranking and

total average quality ranking. Again, average quality ranking is the average quality of provided

amenities at a given site, not penalizing for absence of features. For average quality ranking,

the range of all sites assessed is 2.00 – 3.63, the highest rank belonging to Cooper’s Alley L-

Head in Nueces County and the lowest ranks given to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Boat Ramp in

Refugio County and Captain Cady’s Bait Shop in Aransas County. The highest ranking average

quality ranking score among all counties was at San Patricio County with an average rank of

3.04 for its 3 sites. The lowest ranking county for average quality ranking was Refugio County

with an average of 2.28 for its 3 available sites. Overall, the average ranking for all counties

assessed for average quality ranking was 2.85.

Considering the range for average quality ranking, a superimposed system of assigning values to

sites by splitting them into quarters (intervals of 0.41) was applied to provide general rankings.

Based on the superimposed ranking system, 7 sites are in excellent condition including 4 sites

from Nueces, 2 sites from Aransas, and 1 site from San Patricio Counties. These 3 counties

appear to have the best maintained facilities throughout the Coastal Bend region. A total of 4

sites were found to have poor conditions, including 1 from Nueces, 2 from Refugio, and 1 from

Aransas Counties.

Total average quality ranking scores, which considered 9 amenities at sites, penalizing a site for

absence of a given feature, was considerably different than average quality ranking scores. The

range for total average quality ranking was 0.91 – 3.55, with the highest rank going to Conn

Browns Harbor Point Park in Nueces County, and the lowest ranks belonging to the Texas Parks

& Wildlife Boat Ramp in Refugio County and Captain Cady’s Bait Shop in Aransas County. The

highest ranking county for total average quality ranking was San Patricio County, with an

average of 2.67 for its 3 available sites. The lowest ranking county was Refugio County with an

average of 1.18 for its 3 sites. Overall, the average for all counties assessed for total quality

ranking was 2.17.

70

To further rank these sites and counties, a system of assigning quality rank was imposed by

splitting the ranks into quarters with intervals of 0.66. Based on this superimposed system of

general ranking, only 2 sites are considered to be in excellent condition, 1 from Nueces County

and the other from San Patricio County. A total of 7 sites have poor conditions based on this

ranking, 3 from Nueces, 3 from Refugio, and 1 from Aransas County.

Conclusion

The Texas Coastal Bend region offers a large number of public access sites for boaters, featuring

a variety of amenities at each location. Some sites have great quality facilities across the board,

while others need vast improvements for safety and essential function of certain features. This

report examined the 26 public boat ramps in this region in order to provide site managers and

users with general knowledge about their facilities, or lack thereof. Site managers and users

may now compare boat ramps within their area and determine the ideal location for boat

launch, or for future improvement projects. Enhancements to sites were provided in this

report to allow site managers to visualize what features need improvement and to what

degree. Estimated expenses and associated costs were taken into account for enhancements

as well, providing site managers with values for replacing or repairing site amenities. In the

event of a strong storm along the Gulf coast, several or most amenities at a given site may

require replacement or major repair. This report may provide guidance for assessing what

features to focus on first, aiding in prioritization of maintenance or replacement tasks. Some of

the enhancements noted in this report should be addressed in a timely fashion because they

may result in damage to the health or property of users. To avoid potential liability concerns,

repairing or replacing these potentially dangerous features should immediately be considered.

71

Appendix I: All Quality Rankings

Coun

tySit

eBo

at Ra

mp

Boat

Doc

kPie

rPa

rking

Lot

Acce

ss Ro

adAc

cess

Ram

p/St

airs

Hand

Rails

Tie O

ffsBo

at Sl

ipsSig

nage

Restr

oom

sAv

erag

e Qua

lity R

ankin

gTo

tal

Tota

l Ave

rage

Qua

lity R

ankin

gAr

ansa

sCa

ptain

Cady

's Ba

it Sho

p1

2

23

2

2.00

100.9

1

Capt

ain Ca

dy's

Bait S

hop 2

33

34

34

3

2

33.1

128

2.55

Copa

no Ba

y Sta

te Fi

shing

Pier

- Sou

th4

33

32

43

33

3.11

282.5

5

Cove

Har

bor

33

4

34

43

3

33.3

330

2.73

Navig

ation

Boat

Ramp

33

3

33

3

2

2.8

620

1.82

Goos

e Isla

nd St

ate P

ark

33

3

33

3

3.0

018

1.64

Rock

port

Beac

h Boa

t Ram

p2

3

33

3

33

2.86

201.8

2

St. Ch

arles

Bay B

oat R

amp

34

3

34

43

42

3.3

330

2.73

Coun

ty A

vera

ge Q

uality

Rank

ing

2.75

3.00

3.00

3.13

2.88

3.38

3.50

3.00

4.00

2.57

3.00

2.95

34.20

2.21

% of

Site

s with

Feat

ure

100%

100%

25%

100%

100%

100%

50%

38%

13%

88%

50%

Tota

l Ave

rage

Qua

lity Ra

nking

2.75

3.00

0.7

5

3.13

2.88

3.3

8

1.7

5

1.1

3

0.5

0

2.25

1.50

Klebe

rgKa

ufer

-Hub

ert M

emor

ial Pa

rk3

33

23

3

33

33

2.90

292.6

4

Padr

e Isla

nd N

ation

al Se

asho

re3

33

33

3

3

34

3.11

282.5

5

Coun

ty A

vera

ge Q

uality

Rank

ing

3.00

3.00

3.00

2.50

3.00

3.00

0.00

3.00

3.00

3.00

3.50

3.01

30.00

2.59

% of

Site

s with

Feat

ure

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

0%10

0%50

%10

0%10

0%

Tota

l Ave

rage

Qua

lity Ra

nking

3.00

3.00

3.0

0

2.50

3.00

3.0

0

-

3.00

1.50

3.0

0

3.5

0

Nuec

esBil

lings

Bait &

Tack

le3

4

33

43

4

4

3.50

282.5

5

Clem'

s Mar

ina3

3

33

43

3

4

3.25

262.3

6

Conn

Brow

ns H

arbo

r Poin

t Par

k4

43

33

44

43

43

3.55

393.5

5

Coop

er's

Alley

L-He

ad Bo

atRa

mp4

4

33

4

4

43

3.63

292.6

4

Mar

inavil

le3

3

33

3

2

23

2.75

222.0

0

Denn

is Dr

eyer

Mun

icipa

l Har

bor

22

2

33

33

22

32.5

025

2.27

Fin &

Feat

her M

arina

22

3

32

2

2.3

314

1.27

Haze

l Baz

emor

e Cou

nty P

ark

2

3

3

2

32.6

013

1.18

Labo

nte P

ark

22

2

42

2

32.4

317

1.55

Pack

ery C

hann

el3

4

33

43

3

13

3.00

272.4

5

Coun

ty A

vera

ge Q

uality

Rank

ing

2.80

3.11

3.00

2.80

3.10

3.33

3.20

3.29

2.50

2.70

3.00

2.95

32.83

2.18

% of

Site

s with

Feat

ure

100%

90%

10%

100%

100%

90%

50%

70%

20%

100%

70%

Tota

l Ave

rage

Qua

lity Ra

nking

2.80

2.80

0.3

0

2.80

3.10

3.0

0

1.6

0

2.3

0

0.5

0

2.70

2.10

Refu

gioAr

ansa

s Rive

r Boa

t Ram

p3

1

33

1

2

2.17

131.1

8

Austw

ell Co

mmun

ity Pa

rk4

3

22

3

2

2.67

161.4

5

Texa

s Par

ks &

Wild

life Bo

at Ra

mp3

1

23

1

2.00

100.9

1

Coun

ty A

vera

ge Q

uality

Rank

ing

3.33

1.67

0.00

2.33

2.67

1.67

0.00

0.00

0.00

2.00

0.00

2.28

13.67

1.18

% of

Site

s with

Feat

ure

100%

100%

0%10

0%10

0%10

0%0%

0%0%

67%

0%

Tota

l Ave

rage

Qua

lity Ra

nking

3.33

1.67

-

2.3

3

2.6

7

1.67

-

-

-

1.33

-

San P

atric

ioCo

ve Pa

rk2

33

23

33

2

32

2.60

262.3

6

Rans

om Ro

ad Pa

rk3

43

32

4

34

43

3.30

333.0

0

San P

atric

io Co

unty

Navig

ation

Dist

rict #

12

43

33

43

3

4

3.22

292.6

4

Coun

ty A

vera

ge Q

uality

Rank

ing

2.33

3.67

3.00

2.67

2.67

3.67

3.00

2.67

4.00

3.67

2.50

3.04

33.83

2.67

% of

Site

s with

Feat

ure

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

67%

100%

33%

100%

67%

Tota

l Ave

rage

Qua

lity Ra

nking

2.33

3.67

3.0

0

2.67

2.67

3.6

7

2.0

0

2.6

7

1.3

3

3.67

1.67

All C

ount

iesAv

erag

e Qua

lity Ra

nking

2.81

2.96

3.00

2.81

2.92

3.16

3.27

3.07

3.20

2.75

3.00

2.85

23.38

2.17

% of

Site

s with

Feat

ure

100%

96%

31%

100%

100%

96%

42%

54%

19%

92%

58%

Tota

l Ave

rage

Qua

lity Ra

nking

2.81

2.85

0.92

2.81

2.92

3.04

1.38

1.77

0.62

2.54

1.73

2.13

23.38

72

Appendix II: Average Quality Rankings

Rank

Coun

tySi

teA

vera

ge Q

ualit

y Ra

nkin

gRa

ting

#1N

uece

sC

oo

per'

s A

lley

L-H

ead

3.63

Exce

llent

#2N

uece

sC

onn

Bro

wn'

s H

arbo

r Po

int

Park

3.55

Exce

llent

#3N

uece

sB

illin

gs B

ait

& T

ackl

e3.

50Ex

celle

nt

#4A

rans

asC

ove

Har

bor

3.33

Exce

llent

#5A

rans

asSt

. Cha

rles

Bay

Bo

at R

amp

3.33

Exce

llent

#6Sa

n Pa

tric

ioR

anso

m R

oad

Par

k3.

30Ex

celle

nt

#7N

uece

sC

lem

's M

arin

a3.

25Ex

celle

nt

#8Sa

n Pa

tric

ioSa

n Pa

tric

io C

oun

ty N

avig

atio

n D

istr

ict

#13.

22G

oo

d

#9A

rans

asC

apta

in C

ady'

s B

ait

Sho

p 2

3.11

Go

od

#10

Ara

nsas

Co

pano

Bay

Sta

te F

ishi

ng P

ier

- So

uth

3.11

Go

od

#11

Kleb

erg

Padr

e Is

land

Nat

iona

l Sea

sho

re3.

11G

oo

d

#12

Ara

nsas

Go

ose

Isla

nd S

tate

Par

k3.

00G

oo

d

#13

Nue

ces

Pack

ery

Cha

nnel

3.00

Go

od

#14

Kleb

erg

Kauf

er-H

uber

t M

emo

rial

Par

k2.

90G

oo

d

#15

Ara

nsas

Nav

igat

ion

Bo

at R

amp

2.86

Go

od

#16

Ara

nsas

Ro

ckpo

rt B

each

Bo

at R

amp

2.86

Go

od

#17

Nue

ces

Mar

inav

ille

2.75

Fair

#18

Ref

ugio

Aus

twel

l Co

mm

unit

y Pa

rk2.

67Fa

ir

#19

San

Patr

icio

Co

ve P

ark

2.60

Fair

#20

Nue

ces

Haz

el B

azem

ore

Co

unty

Par

k2.

60Fa

ir

#21

Nue

ces

Den

nis

Dre

yer

Mun

icip

al H

arbo

r2.

50Fa

ir

#22

Nue

ces

Labo

nte

Park

2.43

Fair

#23

Nue

ces

Fin

& F

eath

er M

arin

a2.

33Po

or

#24

Ref

ugio

Ara

nsas

Riv

er B

oat

Ram

p2.

17Po

or

#25

Ara

nsas

Cap

tain

Cad

y's

Bai

t Sh

op

2.00

Poo

r

#26

Ref

ugio

Texa

s Pa

rks

& W

ildlif

e B

oat

Ram

p2.

00Po

or

73

Appendix III: Total Average Quality Rankings

Rank

Coun

tySi

teTo

tal A

vera

ge Q

ualit

y Ra

nkin

gRa

ting

#1N

uece

sCo

nn B

row

n's

Har

bor P

oint

Par

k3.

55Ex

celle

nt

#2Sa

n Pa

tric

ioRa

nsom

Roa

d Pa

rk3.

00Ex

celle

nt

#3Ar

ansa

sCo

ve H

arbo

r2.

73G

ood

#4Ar

ansa

sSt

. Cha

rles

Bay

Boat

Ram

p2.

73G

ood

#5Kl

eber

gKa

ufer

-Hub

ert M

emor

ial P

ark

2.64

Goo

d

#6N

uece

sCo

oper

's A

lley

L-H

ead

Boat

Ram

p2.

64G

ood

#7Sa

n Pa

tric

ioSa

n Pa

tric

io C

ount

y N

avig

atio

n D

istr

ict #

12.

64G

ood

#8Ar

ansa

sCa

ptai

n Ca

dy's

Bai

t Sho

p 2

2.55

Goo

d

#9Ar

ansa

sCo

pano

Bay

Sta

te F

ishi

ng P

ier -

Sou

th2.

55G

ood

#10

Kleb

erg

Padr

e Is

land

Nat

iona

l Sea

shor

e2.

55G

ood

#11

Nue

ces

Billi

ngs

Bait

& T

ackl

e2.

55G

ood

#12

Nue

ces

Pack

ery

Chan

nel

2.45

Goo

d

#13

Nue

ces

Clem

's M

arin

a2.

36G

ood

#14

San

Patr

icio

Cove

Par

k2.

36G

ood

#15

Nue

ces

Den

nis

Dre

yer M

unic

ipal

Har

bor

2.27

Goo

d

#16

Nue

ces

Mar

inav

ille

2.00

Fair

#17

Aran

sas

Nav

igat

ion

Boat

Ram

p1.

82Fa

ir

#18

Aran

sas

Rock

port

Bea

ch B

oat R

amp

1.82

Fair

#19

Aran

sas

Goo

se Is

land

Sta

te P

ark

1.64

Fair

#20

Nue

ces

Labo

nte

Park

1.55

Poor

#21

Refu

gio

Aust

wel

l Com

mun

ity P

ark

1.45

Poor

#22

Nue

ces

Fin

& F

eath

er M

arin

a1.

27Po

or

#23

Nue

ces

Haz

el B

azem

ore

Coun

ty P

ark

1.18

Poor

#24

Refu

gio

Aran

sas

Rive

r Boa

t Ram

p1.

18Po

or

#25

Aran

sas

Capt

ain

Cady

's B

ait S

hop

0.91

Poor

#26

Refu

gio

Texa

s Pa

rks

& W

ildlif

e Bo

at R

amp

0.91

Poor

74

Appendix IV: Map of Sites Assessed

75

Literature Cited

(2015) Brahney Paving. Asphalt Paving. <http://www.fixasphalt.com/asphalt-paving>

(2015) Cost Helper Home & Garden. Repairing a Deck Cost. <home.costhelper.com/deck-

repair.html.

(2015) Google Maps. Decimal Degrees.

(2015) Google Shopping. Aluminum Hand Rails.

(2015) Google Shopping. Tie Offs-Metal Cleats.

(2011) Naismith Engineering Inc. Nueces County Coastal Parks Master Plan.

(2007) Pierce County Government. Park and Facility Condition Assessment.

<http://www.piercecountywa.org/DocumentCenter/View/4973>

(2015) Signs. Custom Aluminum Signs. <www.signs.com/aluminum/>.

(2015) Skid-O-Kan. Phone Number (361) 949-5571.

(2015) Texas General Land Office. Texas Coasts Application. Austin, TX. <txcoasts.com#>.

http://www.fixasphalt.com/asphalt-paving

http://www.signs.com/aluminum/%3e.

Documents

Facility Condition Assessment