County boat ramp reopens after 6-year recovery

Clay County Government said its Shands Boat Ramp, parking area and bulkhead is now open after damage caused six years ago by a storm.

“Hurricane Matthew damaged the Shands Fishing Pier beyond repair in 2016,” the county said in a social media post. “Over the last three months, crews removed the remaining piles and timbers, totaling over 300 tons of materials. We had to close the area while crews worked.”

The county is not rebuilding the fishing pier at the facility, which was also destroyed by the storm. “The Florida Department of Transportation is anticipated to begin construction on the new SR 16 Bridge,” officials said. “Once complete, the old Shands Bridge will be turned into a 672-foot fishing pier and recreation area for Clay County residents to enjoy.”