Hernando County is seeking Requests for Qualifications from qualified engineering consultants to perform surveying, geotechnical analyses, engineering, design, permitting, and construction administration services for improvements to the existing boat ramp facility located in the Lake Townsen Park on the Withlacoochee River. The objective of this project is to make improvements to the existing gravel ramp that will enable year-round use and improve accessibility. The final goal will be to successfully construct a properly designed concrete boat ramp, sidewalk, dock, and floating mooring dock. Improvements will also be made to the existing access road and parking areas.
The design of the boat ramp and floating dock needs to incorporate the broad range of fluctuations in water levels of the Withlacoochee River to improve both wet season and dry season accessibility. The design consultant should evaluate the range of water levels utilizing stage records available from the SWFWMD and USGS and incorporate these elevations into the design. The design plans should include the option of installing a temporary cofferdam to create a dry work environment to construct the portion of the ramp located within the river basin. The use of a cofferdam is anticipated unless the river elevation drops below its median or normal range during the time period construction takes place.