Construction on the Kings Bay Riverwalk in Crystal River has reached a pivotal milestone, with one of the final two phases now underway and on schedule to finish in January 2026. Crews have begun installing decking on the over-water section, cutting pilings, and removing portions of the existing lower bridge, marking significant visible progress along the waterfront.
The last remaining phase, however, is temporarily on hold while city-contracted engineers work to answer a question that has divided the Crystal River City Council and the public for years: Can the Riverwalk be completed without eliminating one of the city’s two public boat ramps? City Manager Audra Curts confirmed engineers were asked to assess the feasibility of preserving the boat ramp. “It’s something the council wanted us to look at,” Curts said. “We’ve asked our engineers if it is feasible to keep the boat ramp. They’ll present what they’ve found.”
City staff expects to present those engineering findings at a public workshop scheduled for 10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 7, at the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center, located at 915 U.S. 19 in Crystal River. Council members will first discuss the Riverwalk’s final phase before shifting to plans for the proposed new City Hall. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to attend.
The outcome of that workshop could determine whether Crystal River’s nearly four-decade effort to build a continuous waterfront promenade finally crosses the finish line, or whether another redesign will be required before construction on the last phase can begin. The boat ramp debate has been one of the most contentious issues surrounding the long-running project, with community members on both sides expressing strong opinions about waterfront access. For more information, visit the Citrus County Chronicle or the City of Crystal River’s official website.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Crystal River
