Manatee County urgently needs additional public boat ramps to support its rapidly growing population. Existing ramps—including Riverside in Palmetto and Fort Hamer—are overcrowded every weekend. Parking has been reduced at Riverside, and Fort Hamer’s two lanes routinely fill before mid-morning. These facilities can no longer meet local demand, creating long waits, traffic congestion, safety issues, and frustration for residents.

A rare opportunity now exists: the waterfront property at 6755 US 301N, Ellenton, a location ideally suited for a multi-lane public boat ramp with proper trailer parking. Once sold and privately developed, this land will never again be available for public waterfront access.

We, the undersigned residents and supporters of Manatee County, respectfully request that the Board of County Commissioners:

1. Actively evaluate 6755 US 301N for purchase as a public boat ramp site.

2. Develop a multi-lane ramp (4+ lanes) to alleviate countywide overcrowding.

3. Explore a reasonable pay-per-use fee to help offset construction and maintenance costs.

4. Prioritize long-term public access to waterways while considering environmental impacts.

Manatee County is significantly behind comparable Florida counties in the number of public boat ramps and total launch lanes available. Waterfront access is a core part of our lifestyle, tourism economy, and community identity. This investment will benefit residents for generations.

We urge the county to seize this rare opportunity before it is lost.