T-Mobile awarded a $50,000 Hometown Grant to the city of Oak Harbor to replace the lagoon dock in Windjammer Park, according to a press release from the city.

During the Dec. 14 city council meeting, staff from T-Mobile presented Mayor Bob Severns and the city council with a $50,000 check for the lagoon dock replacement project.

The Rotary Club built the lagoon and dock in 1965, when the waterfront expanse was known as City Beach Park. More than 300 people a day swim for free from dawn until dusk during the summer, according to the city.

Additionally, the lagoon and dock provide a recreational programming opportunity for the local Parks and Recreation programs, including introductory kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding courses.

In June 2021, city parks staff completed significant repairs to the existing dock. However, they determined that the dock had reached its serviceable life and prepared information to include the dock replacement as part of future park improvements. Staff proposed replacing the dock material with a safer material for marine life and humans, transitioning away from a stationary dock that is unsafe during tide changes, overhauling the dock’s structure and providing accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.

Staff applied for the grant in September 2021 and received notification of the award in November.

A new floating dock will adjust with tides and float, providing a safer entrance and exit for users. It will have Enhance Americans with Disabilities Act access by providing railings and non-slip surfaces and the ability for the dock ramp to rise to meet users’ needs .

Instead of wood or creosote, weather-resistant materials will decrease the frequency of preventative maintenance and harmful chemicals in the lagoon. The goal is for the new dock to have a similar design and dimension. Staff estimates the construction to take approximately five months to complete the project by Memorial Day.