Frisco kayak park closer to reality

FRISCO, Colo. – Construction of a whitewater feature for kayakers in Tenmile Creek as it flows through Frisco is expected to begin in the fall, with the hope of challenging paddlers by spring 2008.

The ideal period for kayakers to use the kayak park will be from May through July, said Jocelyn Mills, senior planner with the Town of Frisco.

To create the whitewater feature, rocks will be reconfigured and bank improvements are planned. Basically, it involves making a “more fun feature for kayakers … more of a challenge,” Mills said. The work will likely improve the fishing, as well, she said.

The project will not change the level or appearance of the creek, but involves restructuring a fish habitat that was built there in the early ’90s, Mills explained.

The town has been working to obtain the necessary permits since the idea first surfaced three years ago. At present, the town awaits approvals from the Colorado Department of Transportation and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Town officials hope to have both in hand by this summer, Mills said.

Bidding is expected to take place this summer for this first phase of work; the Frisco Town Council has budgeted $100,000 for the Tenmile Creek Kayak Park.

The second phase of the project involves installing another whitewater feature, but requires the OK from adjacent homeowners in an area farther upstream, toward the pedestrian bridge, Mills said.

Town officials will work with the Woodbridge Home Owners Association in hopes of proceeding with the second phase of the project, according to Mills, but each part was designed as a stand-alone feature in case the other isn’t developed.