Echo Dale swim lake delayed into mid July due to boat lake repair

The seasonal opening of Echo Dale's swim lake is delayed roughly two weeks as a result of ongoing efforts to replace the boat lake liner.

Work to replace the boat lake liner, which was leaking due to damage, began in March.

The work was originally expected to complete in late June and was not anticipated to affect the swim lake's opening date, however weather and unforeseen circumstances have pushed back the project's overall timeline and slightly widened its scope in regards to the swim lake.

City officials now anticipate the boat lake will reopen in early August, however in order to meet that goal, the swim lake's opening must be pushed back until July 15.

“We have to delay filling the swim lake to maintain the dry conditions that are required to successfully repair the boat lake liner,” city managing director Brian Stauth said. “Added moisture in the ground will delay the project, so this is our quickest path to bringing these two staples for summertime enjoyment back into operation.”

Stauth and other city officials thank Hatters for their patience and remind them other amenities within the park will be open to visitors despite the ongoing work, including the historic farm and barn, river boat launch, ball diamond, multi-use trail system, beach volleyball courts, picnic and campsites.

Concession will also be open, though it will be operating on modified hours until both lakes are reopen.

Remediation also continues throughout the park to address damaged caused by last summer's severe wind storm.

School tours will not run at the park this season.