LAKE HAVASU — The Mohave County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved a $1.6 million allocation from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to replace the aging fishing pier at Lake Havasu City’s Site Six, a location steeped in World War II history and now a popular recreational area. This decision, made during the board’s August meeting, is part of a larger $1.8 million spending package for various ARPA-funded projects across the county.
Site Six, officially known as Lake Havasu Auxiliary Field #6, has a rich heritage dating back to the 1940s. Initially developed during World War II by the Army Air Forces, it served as an emergency landing field for the Kingman Army Air Field’s Yucca Aerial Gunnery Range. This strategic location played a crucial role in supporting military operations and pilot training during the war effort.
In 1944, recognizing the area’s natural beauty and potential for boosting morale, the military converted Site Six into a rest and convalescent camp. Here, servicemen found respite from the rigors of war, enjoying recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking along the shores of Lake Havasu. This transformation marked the beginning of Site Six’s legacy as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Following the war, Site Six transitioned from a military facility to a public recreational area, preserving its role as a place of leisure and natural enjoyment. Over the decades, it has evolved to become a vital part of Lake Havasu City’s outdoor offerings, featuring a popular fishing pier and the only free boat launch ramp in the area.
The current fishing pier, constructed in 1998, has been a cornerstone of Site Six’s attractions for the past 26 years and is the only fishing dock owned by Lake Havasu City. However, a 2020 assessment deemed the structure in critical need of repair or replacement, prompting the recent decision by the Mohave County Board of Supervisors.
District 3 Supervisor Buster Johnson, who requested the funding, will direct the $1.6 million from his district’s share of the county’s total $41.2 million in ARPA funds. Each supervisor in Mohave County oversees slightly more than $8 million for qualified projects within their respective districts. The decision to replace rather than renovate the pier came after county documents revealed that full replacement would cost approximately $200,000 more than renovation, but would provide a more durable and modern structure.
The board’s decision wasn’t without controversy. During the public input session, Mohave County resident Kris Rodarte voiced opposition to the project and its funding source. Rodarte criticized the use of ARPA funds, which she referred to as ”unconstitutional,” for what she termed ”pet construction projects.” She argued that the true impact of COVID-19 came from enforced restrictions rather than the disease itself.
Despite this objection, the board moved forward with the approval. The replacement project aims not only to preserve Site Six’s historical significance but also to enhance the experience for local anglers and potentially attract more visitors to the area. This could have positive economic implications for Lake Havasu City and the surrounding region, building upon the site’s long-standing role as a recreational destination.
The pier replacement is part of ongoing infrastructure improvements at Site Six. Earlier this month, Lake Havasu City announced a temporary closure of the area on August 22 to install new fishing dock anchors. This closure, affecting the fishing pier, launch ramp, and all boat traffic in the Site Six waterway, was scheduled from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. to allow for the installation of 2,500-pound anchors and underwater work by divers.
In addition to the Site Six project, the Board of Supervisors approved several other ARPA-funded initiatives:
A $72,507.66 allocation to the Golden Valley Fire District for a self-contained breathing apparatus fill station.
A $55,000 beneficiary funding agreement for the construction of a new VFW memorial in Lake Havasu City.
Up to $72,000 for renovations to the Golden Shores VFW Post 6306 kitchen, dining hall, and restroom.
A contract not exceeding $149,034.20 with Terracon Consultants, Inc., for engineering design services for modular restrooms at three community parks.
These projects reflect the county’s efforts to utilize ARPA funds for community enhancement and infrastructure improvement across various districts. The diverse nature of these allocations — ranging from recreational facilities to emergency services equipment — underscores the broad impact of federal COVID-19 relief funds at the local level.
The timeline for the pier replacement and other approved projects remains to be determined, but these developments signal a new chapter in Site Six’s storied history and a period of notable infrastructure improvement for Mohave County residents and visitors alike. As the project progresses, it will likely balance modern recreational needs with the preservation of the site’s historical significance, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy this unique location on the shores of Lake Havasu.
—Jeremy Webb
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