Clearwater Applies for Grant to Add Removable Boat Launch

Published on October 29, 2025

The city of Clearwater is seeking public input on a proposal to install a removable boat launch at Sand Key Bayside Park near the Community Sailing Center. The city will host a public meeting on Nov. 13 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Clearwater Community Sailing Center, 1001 Gulf Blvd to gather feedback on the project.

"Maybe you're learning to paddle, or you've been boating for years. Either way, this makes getting on the water easier and safer for everyone," said Parks & Recreation Director Art Kader. "One of the reasons people choose to live in Clearwater is for our beautiful waterways and beaches, and this helps them experience them every day."

Staff will present the concept at 5:15 p.m. and invite feedback with sticky-note stations on several presentation boards.

A removable boat launch is a modular, low-profile platform at the water's edge that helps people roll or slide small boats into the water and recover them with stability. The system can be taken out seasonally, ahead of major storms or for maintenance, which protects the shoreline and extends the life of the equipment.

Clearwater is a year-round boating community. Residents and visitors use local waterways for sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing. The new launch would improve entry points to Clearwater Harbor and Clearwater Pass.

About the Land and Water Conservation Fund
The Land and Water Conservation Fund is a federal program created in 1964 that supports the development of outdoor recreation facilities for public use through grants to states and local governments. LWCF does not use any taxpayer dollars and is funded using a small portion of revenues from offshore oil and gas royalty payments.