North East Marina: News, Updates & Boating Info!
Are you seeking the perfect harbor for your aquatic adventures? The North East Marina in Pennsylvania, a hub of recreational boating and tourism, is currently navigating a period of significant change, promising both exciting opportunities and potential challenges for boating enthusiasts.
The heartbeat of this story is the North East Marina, nestled at 11950 East Lake Road in North East, Pennsylvania, zip code 16428. The marina, a well-known access point to the walleye-rich waters of Lake Erie, is in the midst of a pivotal transition. It's a story of community collaboration, governmental involvement, and the unwavering spirit of those who live and breathe the maritime life.
The North East Community Marina Authority (NECMA) is the driving force behind this transformation. Their mission, as stated in official releases, centers on enhancing recreational boating and tourism within the region. Their primary goal is to secure the long-term viability of the marina. This includes preserving the facility, managing its operations, and ultimately, acquiring ownership from the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC).
A crucial meeting took place on February 13th at Banta's North East office, where key figures converged to discuss the marina's future. State Senator Dan Laughlin and representatives from the township were present, highlighting the collaborative effort to ensure the marina's continued operation. This united front showcases the community's dedication to preserving this valuable asset.
The marina's offerings are diverse, catering to both seasoned sailors and weekend adventurers. The facility boasts 220 seasonal and transient boat slips, providing ample space for vessels of varying sizes. These slips come with options, too: 88 are equipped with both water and electric, while approximately 30 transient slips are available without these amenities, and 5 transient slips include water and electricity. Complementing the slips are two launch ramps, designed to facilitate easy access to the water. Winter storage, both indoor and outdoor, is also available, ensuring boat owners can safeguard their investments during the off-season.
The North East Marina is more than just a docking station; it's a gateway to the joys of Lake Erie. Known as a prime spot for perch fishing and general angling, the area attracts fishing enthusiasts from far and wide. Lake Erie itself, bursting with entertainment options, promises memorable experiences for families and individuals alike. The marina's location also provides easy access to various local amenities and attractions.
However, the path forward hasn't been without its bumps. The marina was temporarily closed for maintenance until April 27th, as crews worked to dredge and shore up the area. Furthermore, a difficult decision has been made regarding the facility: certain portions containing privately leased boat slips will be permanently closed at the end of the 2023 boating season. This decision underscores the complexities and challenges involved in managing such a large and vital facility.
The North East Marina is a municipal authority incorporated by the borough of North East, Pennsylvania. According to a news release, the NECMA has signed an agreement with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission to assume operations at the marina, a major step in the effort to secure the marina's future. This is a significant development, demonstrating the authority's commitment to ensuring the marina remains a vibrant hub for recreational boating and tourism.
The township supervisors have been working alongside the borough, the Fish and Boat Commission, state officials, and community members to establish the best strategy for keeping the North East Marina operational. This collaboration shows that the future of the marina is a shared priority. These stakeholders understand that the marina is more than just a place to moor a boat; it's an economic engine, a recreational outlet, and a source of community pride.
For potential visitors and boaters, the marina offers several services. One can launch a boat, obtain a slip, purchase tackle, buy a fishing license, and even fish from land within the marina. The marina's hard surface ramps facilitate easy boat launching, making it simpler for most trailered boats to access the water. Furthermore, the marina has new and used boats for sale.
For those seeking more than just boating, the North East area provides numerous opportunities. The area is a haven for outdoor adventures. It is surrounded by campgrounds and RV parks.
The North East Marina is an access point for Lake Erie, a region abundant with attractions and entertainment for families and individuals. A live camera offers views of the CSX and Norfolk Southern mainlines, providing an interesting spectacle for railfans. The area is home to a number of RV parks and campsites. Real photos and reviews of the area's campsites can be found online, aiding in planning a trip.
Those interested in the marina can bookmark the latest updates and review information. The authority aims to negotiate with the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission to transfer ownership of the North East Marina, located at 11950 East Lake Road. The marina has 220 dock slips and a tackle shop.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | North East Marina |
| Location | 11950 East Lake Road, North East, PA 16428 |
| Slips | 220 total (seasonal and transient) |
| Amenities | 2 launch ramps, indoor and outdoor winter storage, tackle shop, new and used boats for sale. |
| Transient Slips (no water/electric) | Approximately 30 at $10/night |
| Transient Slips (water/electric) | 5 at $20/night |
| Authority | North East Community Marina Authority (NECMA) |
| Mission | To enhance recreational boating and tourism, preserve the marina, manage operations, and transfer ownership from PA Fish & Boat Commission. |
| Status | Open (currently), undergoing transition; some private slips to be closed end of 2023 season. |
The marina is strategically placed, making it an ideal base for fishing, boating, and enjoying the scenic beauty of Lake Erie. The efforts to save the marina are ongoing, with the NECMA working to ensure its future. With the 2023 boating season fast approaching, it appears the north east marina may be open, leaving hundreds of area boaters with a local dock and many local businesses without a season long source of customers from vacationers and visitors to the facilities.
For more information and updates, boaters and visitors are encouraged to stay connected with the North East Community Marina Authority, the North East Township, and other relevant authorities. As the marina evolves, it promises to be a dynamic destination for water enthusiasts, providing both essential services and a gateway to the joys of Lake Erie.
