|
Dewey Beach officials are talking about using an empty lot near the Lifesaving Station to build a parking lot and public restrooms for beachgoers.
The public restroom would have to be disguised as the outhouse that used to sit near the station as depicted in a painting at town hall. But the structure, used by crews that worked in the station during the 1890s, was removed long ago, although it is said to still be in Dewey, used as a garage.
According to the town’s lease from the state, Dewey must maintain the facility’s historic appearance and use the building for meetings and public needs. The lease expires in 2010, but officials assume the state will grant a lease for another 25 years at $1 each year.
“I think a replica with modernized facilities would be good for our visitors,” said Town Manager Gordon Elliott, who proposed the idea at the Saturday, Feb. 10 town meeting. He suggested building a 15-by-35-foot building with wooden shingles on the outside with two toilets each for men and women and possibly a foot shower on the outside. In an informal proposal, he suggested planting trees and shrubs and using crushed shell on the lot to accommodate about 10 cars. The whole project is estimated to cost $85,000, he said.
Building bathrooms and using the lot for parking has been discussed for years, said resident Anna Legates. She said while she was a member of the planning and zoning committee, the idea was narrowly defeated.
During the beach replenishment project, the U.S. Corps of Engineers parked trucks in the town’s lot. When they left, officials offered to shell the lot for free, but commissioners refused. “We didn’t have enough time for a study and we didn’t know how the public felt about it,” said Commissioner Bob Fitzgerald, who said he voted against the offer last year.
“We have an obligation to provide parking for our meetings,” said Mayor Dell Tush. She sponsored a public hearing to discuss building the parking lot. She said it’s ridiculous and embarrassing to have property owners park on private property to attend meetings.
At that time, Dewey Beach Civic League donated $4,800 to conduct a study of the lot, but the town never did a formal study.
While the audience at the meeting approved the concept of a parking lot and restrooms, some people are concerned nearby property owners might not like it. “If neighbors are squawking about a parking lot, what will they say about bathrooms?” asked Commissioner Claire Walsh.
“I don’t think you’ll get the support you need for this. Nobody wants a parking lot or a bathroom in their own backyard,” said budget and finance sub-committee Chairman Charlie Pollard. Some audience members said they are afraid the lot would turn into a late-night partying place.
Tush suggested fencing the parking lot and opening gates during public meetings. “A fence doesn’t look good,” said Realtor T.J. Redefer. He suggested creating the lot with out a fence, under a trial period. “With our police department I don’t see a need to fence it. We can use signs and tow cars away if they are breaking the law,” he said. Tush reminded the audience that council would need to pass new ordinances to specify the lot for meetings only.
Commissioners voted unanimously to get an artist rendering of a possible bathroom and parking lot to show the public. They will hold a public hearing on the issue at an upcoming meeting.
Contact Molly Albertson at malbertson@capegazette.com
|
