Construction of a new boathouse in Kenmore is underway.

The city of Kenmore is currently closing a portion of Rhododendron Park waterfront as it constructs a new $1.19 million boathouse, supporting public and Northshore School District boating programs.

In 2017, the City of Kenmore completed a walkway across Rhododendron Park’s wetland, a new boarding float on the river and improved parking facilities— all to support water access for a various hand-carried watercraft, according to the city.

The operation of the Boathouse is expected for the spring and summer of 2021, and the 40-by-70 foot structure will house up to 36 rowing shells, and have an upper level for exercise, meeting and coaching space.

The boathouse is planned to be operated by a nonprofit organization with rowing and boathouse management experience, in agreement with Northshore School District.

The contract for construction of the boathouse was approved on March 16 of this year. Some of the funding sources for the project are expected to include city park impact fees ($23,469), real estate excise tax ($12,800), Northshore School District ($250,000), King County Youth Sports Grant ($611,000), Recreation and Conservation office grant ($22,625) and some additional funds from the state capital budget.

For more information, visit the project webpage here.