ASTATULA — Officials from the Lake County Board of County Commissioners and the Town of Astatula held an official ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, July 27 for the newly enhanced boat ramp located on the shores of Lake Harris, at 12703 Florida Ave. in Astatula.

The boat ramp’s improvements included the construction of a new walkway and floating dock, adjacent to the concrete launching area. The boat ramp gives easy access for boats, canoes and kayaks.

“Not only are the improvements going to be enjoyed by local residents,” said Commissioner Jimmy Conner. “But they will also be a great asset for tourists who use this location as an entry point to one of the County’s eight Blueways trails – the Lake Harris Run.”

Other improvements made at the launch area include installation of trash cans, signage and a picnic table.

Design costs were $25,000, and the construction costs associated with this phase of improvements totaled $50,000. Funding for the boat ramp improvements were provided by boating registration fees collected.

Two other phases are planned for the future and include landscaping, installation of prefabricated restrooms, an educational kiosk and an asphalt parking lot.

For more information about the Astatula Boat Ramp, call the Lake County Parks & Trails Division at 352-253-4950 or email parksandtrails@lakecountyfl.gov.