Following a three-year planning process supported through a local waterfront revitalisation programme, the New York Department of State and the Town of Evans have announced the adoption of the Evans Parks and Sturgeon Point Marina master plan, which will guide future investments across the town’s marina, parks and waterfront.
Sturgeon Point Marina is located on the eastern shore of Lake Erie and provides access to boating, fishing and other water activities. It has more than 200 slips for vessels up to 50ft (15 metres), four launch ramps, dry docks, a fuel dock, a pump-out station, picnic areas and trails, a restaurant and a playground.
According to the department, the master plan was supported by a $131,250 USD grant through the revitalisation programme and focuses on improving water-related recreational amenities, accessibility and resilience, as well as preserving the character of the Evans waterfront.
Walter Mosley, New York secretary of state, said the plan would improve the town’s waterfront and recreational resources, benefiting both residents and visitors over time. “By investing in waterfront parks, marina facilities and public amenities, the Town Evans is positioning itself for sustainable economic growth while preserving the natural beauty and character that makes this community so special,” he said.
Ray Ashton, Evans town supervisor, commented: “The ongoing and future improvements to our Sturgeon Point Marina and nine other public parks will continue to strengthen the visitor experience while helping to address the needs and desires of our local Evans community. This plan provides a thoughtful roadmap for preserving and enhancing our waterfront assets in a way that supports recreation, tourism and quality of life for everyone.”
Work on the plan began in spring 2023 with meetings between the town, consultants and state partners, and residents were also invited to share their views through surveys, stakeholder meetings, public events and other outreach activities.
In 2024, technical studies including bathymetric surveys and sediment transport modelling provided further information on shoreline and marina conditions. A market study found strong demand for boat slips in the 21-26ft (six to eight metres) range, as well as for vessels longer than 30ft (nine metres), and it estimated the marina could support around $1.5 million in boat dealership and repair activity.
During 2025, the proposals were adjusted further as new technical findings and feedback were reviewed, with the final version of the plan completed in early 2026.
