4.7 Janesville

Janesville City Park

Jurisdiction: City of Janesville
Access Number: 183A
Launch type: Boat ramp
Next segment skill level: Beginner
Next segment classification: Recreational
Distance to next access: 4.0 miles

The existing river access in Janesville is situated along the east side of the Cedar River. The site features a shelter, which can be rented for private gatherings, as well as a large gravel parking area, portable toilet, playground equipment, sports fields, a paved trail, and viewing areas. This access is situated next to the city’s pedestrian bridge, as shown above. 

Sometimes there are conflicts between river users and those in the park for gatherings, including baseball games and private events at the shelter. The City plans to develop a second access across the river, while maintaining the existing access as-is.

Because the City plans to develop a new river access on the west side of the Cedar River, no improvements are planned for the Janesville City Park except for signage. Three signs are planned to be added to the Janesville City Park:

  • State-designated water trail identification sign
  • Next downstream launch identification and distance sign
  • On-river access sign

Public Comments

One written comment was received regarding Janesville City Park:

  • “Improve boat ramp at Janesville.” – Janesville resident

Signage

Dort’s Landing

Jurisdiction: City of Janesville
Access number: 183B
Launch type: Boat ramp
Next segment skill level: Beginner
Next segment classification: Recreational
Distance to next access: 4.0 miles

The recently constructed pedestrian bridge in the City of Janesville connects the existing park to an underdeveloped area along the west side of the Cedar River. Due to traffic conflicts at the existing park, there had been local interest in developing a second access across the river, which gained approval in 2021. As of October 2021, construction of a 7’ wide by 25’ long boat ramp has been approved by City officials.

City officials have also discussed the feasibility of adding a riverfront trail along the west side of the Cedar River. The walking trail could potentially continue along the shoreline and connect to East 7th Street and Main Street, ultimately creating a citywide loop for walking and bicycling.  

The newly designated access area has numerous advantages: A water line runs along the underside of the pedestrian bridge, and a new water hydrant can be installed at the access. The height of the pedestrian bridge allows for automobile parking underneath the bridge, thereby preserving more of the undisturbed woodland to the south. Much of the existing vegetation can be maintained to filter runoff from the parking area. The topography of the site itself is suitable for a new 45-degree access to the Cedar River and a new driveway to West Barrick Road. 

Public Comments

There were no public comments received regarding the proposed access in Janesville. 

Site Recommendations

Parking improvements include a paved and striped parking area for six (6) parking stalls suitable for pull-through trailer parking and 14 standard sized parking stalls.  One of the pull-through stalls is accessible with an adjacent 10’ x 10’ staging area.   

The parking lot will also include a vegetated parking island with pollinator plantings which also functions to improve traffic flow. The planned boat ramp will be reinforced by new class B revetment rock. At night, the entire area can be illuminated by attaching LED lighting to the underside of the pedestrian bridge.

Cost Estimate

Signage

Note: Additional recreation area signs including boat ramp signs are recommended at 260th St and N Maple St once boat ramp is constructed and park name is identified.