Burayidi Report on Miller's Bay Pier

UW Oshkosh Professor of Urban Planning Michael Burayidi has released an in-depth and well documented report called "Miller's Bay Fishing Pier Location: An Analysis and Response by Menominee Neighborhood Residents." On June 14, 2005 the Oshkosh Common Council, with little public input, rubber stamped a Parks Advisory Board decision to place the pier in the Bay. In October the DNR gave the city the green light to proceed with the pier. In December DNR Secretary Hassett said that pier opponents would be granted an official hearing, essentially one more chance to offer reasons why an alternative location should be found for the pier. More information can be found in the TonyPalmeri.Com Miller's Bay Archive.

Dr. Burayidi's report closes with this summary and suggestion:

As the foregoing analysis shows, the location of the fishing pier at the east end of New York Avenue on Miller's Bay would pose significant problems. It would contribute to neighborhood stress, and destroy a pristine lakefront. It would also be located in an area without adequate public facilities and thus cause inconvenience and distress for patrons. Also, any new permanent pier of the size suggested to be located on Miller's Bay should undergo a public hearing as to its appearance and location.

An alternate location of the pier further south of New York Avenue and at the foot of Melvin Avenue across from Webster Stanley School would be a better site. There already are earthen berms in the area, ample parking space, and convenient bathroom facilities. In addition, the site is well illuminated with lights from the nearby parking lot. The fishing pier would also fit in with the existing recreational uses in the area - baseball courts, children's playground, a gazebo and soccer fields. The synergy of uses makes this area a better location than the proposed site on Miller's Bay. Most importantly, the location of the pier at the foot of Melvin Avenue is far enough from the boat docks that it would alleviate fears from the Otter Street Fishing Club that sailboaters would tie up their boats to the fishing pier.

On the basis of the preponderance of evidence showing the potential adverse effects of the pier's location on the neighborhood, we respectfully request that the Council reverse the decision to locate the pier off New York Avenue on Miller's Bay.