Protect Our Parks

ALISON LANGLEYTuesday, July 31, 2007 - 07:00

Local News -

FORT ERIE – The future of the former Niagara Parks Commission Marina is expected to make a splash with boaters.

Warren Dac Investments, a private firm which recently took over day-to-day operations of the Niagara River Parkway marina held an informal grand opening Tuesday at the newly-named Miller’s Creek Marina.

The company, which has signed a 99-year lease with the NPC to run the facility, has big plans for the property.

Proposed developments include a 500-slip marina, hotel, restaurant and a 150-unit condominium complex complete with private slips.

Time lines for various phases of the development have not yet been set as environmental and engineering studies need to be done on the property, said Bob O’Dell, Warren Dac spokesman.

“With the completion of the studies, the shoreline architect can then design the new marina,” he said.

He expects the new marina to be completed by 2009.

While construction is underway, seasonal boaters will have their vessels relocated to Marlon Marina in Port Colborne.

“This is a great opportunity but it’s only a few steps of a thousand to be taken. If everything goes according to plan, the marina will be the jewel on the river,” said Christopher George, of Marlon Marina.

The future jewel is rich in history.

In the early 1900s, the site was home to Miller’s Creek Shipyard, which supplied boats to allies during the First World War.

The NPC purchased the land in 1965 and opened a small marina.

The private firm took over management of the marina in May and renovated the existing building, added a patio and improved landscaping.

Once the project is completed, Miller’s Creek Marina will be the only port of entry for boaters entering Canada on the upper Niagara River.

Boaters will be able to clear Canada Customs at the marina and then take in the sights of Niagara.

“We very much want to encourage boating tourism,” O’Dell said.