Rick Patrick
rick@greenepublishing.com
Those who frequently visit Madison's Lake Francis may have noticed the pier/dock is now closed until further notice. According to a press released issued by the City of Madison, the popular pier has now deteriorated to the point where it is unsafe. Due to the high cost of lumber and other building materials, it has become economically unfeasible to maintain the pier.
The pier was built in 1996 with funds obtained by the city through a Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) grant. The press release states that, “the city is in the process of seeking funding to replace the wooden pier/dock with an aluminum floating dock which will have a longer life span and will require little to no maintenance. New grant applications will be submitted as well as requests from local entities to consider becoming a partner with the City of Madison to make the aluminum pier/dock possible.
The walking trail around Lake Francis is still open to the public. People are asked not to attempt to access the pier/dock walkways since it does pose a safety hazard. Plans are in motion to dismantle the structure in order to make the area safe again.