WESTMORE — The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (FPR) has begun work on improvements to the south end of Lake Willoughby in Westmore.
These improvements are in response to significant increases in visitation and use and are intended to improve safety, environmental quality, and visitor enjoyment at Willoughby State Forest.
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This fall, the focus will be on completing an overflow parking lot at the ballfields on the west side of Route 5A.
The next phases will begin in the spring and summer of 2022.
These include parking area improvements, ADA-accessible boat ramp access and boardwalk to the West Cove beach, and bathroom facilities.
“Lake Willoughby is an incredibly special place for so many, from those who are lucky enough to call this part of Vermont home to those who travel here from afar,” said FPR Commissioner Michael Snyder. “We’re proud that work on this project has begun, and we’re grateful to the town of Westmore, the recreating public, FPR staff, and our funders. It truly has been a team effort to get to this exciting moment.”
Visitors can expect construction vehicles, equipment, and some detours for access to the site while work is being completed.
Work will mostly be done during weekdays, and signage will be placed during active construction times.
“We don’t anticipate too many disruptions to visitors’ experiences at Lake Willoughby,” said Louis Bushey, FPR Stewardship Forester.
