Discussions are underway again to see what can be done to breathe new life into the site of the 1996 Olympic Rowing events at Clarks Bridge Park on Lake Lanier.
Participants representing the city of Gainesville, Lake Lanier Rowing Club, Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and the Gainesville/Hall ’96 Foundation are hoping to find funding to bring their hopes to fruition.
Money — estimates vary from $1M to almost $2M — is needed to renovate buildings and docks at the rowing venue.
Other potential expenditures would include a facilities manager, maintenance of the site and a few capital improvements.
Grants might be available to meet some of the needs.
It all boils down to money.
That’s not an attack or an insult.
It’s reality.
We would all love to see regattas return to the rowing venue. We’d love to see more events for the public there. The site represents a highlight in the heritage of Gainesville and Hall County.
There are just too many ways to spend too few dollars.
We’re grateful to all who are putting their dreams and efforts into this project. We hope money will be found to accomplish their goals.
