Construction to the Aune Osborn Campground boat launch is set to take place between June 13 and June 21 to make much needed repairs to assure the launch remains a safe and reliable area for fishermen throughout the summer.

The project to repair the William R. Gregory boat launch is a private-public partnership between the City of Sault Ste. Marie and the Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau. The launch will remain closed to the public during construction. In total, the CVB with the help of generous donors is helping raise $19,000 to complete the project.

Concrete repairs for the boat launch are needed to ensure the launch remains a reliable staple for local and visiting anglers. This summer the CVB is hosting two fishing tournaments which will bring hundreds of pro and amateur anglers to the area. Getting the repairs done as soon as possible is imperative, not just for the tournaments but for local anglers looking to launch their watercrafts.

“We want to make sure everyone’s vehicle and boat can use the boat launch safely,” said Sault CVB Executive Director Linda Hoath. “This partnership is going to help make sure everyone’s fishing experience in Sault Ste. Marie is top notch.”

The Sault CVB will be hosting three fishing tournaments later this summer which will all be based out of Aune Osborn Campground. The boat launch is essential for pro and amateur anglers to securely get their boats into the water. The first tournament is a tour stop for the Masters Walleye Circuit on Aug. 13-14. The second tournament is the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s North American Bass Challenge taking place on Aug. 20 and 21. A third tournament will follow in September.

The partnership between the City and CVB is the latest in a longstanding relationship to help improve Sault Ste. Marie to be a more desirable location for both present day and future residents and tourists.

“Great community partners are what helps move the city forward,” said Sault Ste. Marie City Manager Brian Chapman. “The repairs to the boat launch are something we’re ecstatic to have assistance with. Private-public partnerships are a great tool to get projects done.”

The City suggests anglers looking to launch their boats during the week long construction phase use the additional public boat launches at the Charles T. Harvey Marina, the Mission Street Boat Launch and Ashmun Bay. While construction is underway, the City thanks residents for their patience and understanding.

So far the CVB has raised a considerable amount of funds, but is still looking for donations to help pay for the construction. The CVB will be taking donations until June 25. For more information on how to donate contact the CVB at (906) 632-3366 or email visit@saultstemarie.com

For more up-to-date on the William R. Gregory boat launch’s closure timeline visit the City of Sault Ste. Marie’s Facebook profile here.