Council Approves Quick Fix for North Beach Access

Heading out for a day at the beach, one might expect to feel the sand between their toes — but when heading to North Beach in Port Washington, visitors are often met with soppy mud and a sand-covered trail before hitting the shoreline.

The issue, caused by runoff from the bluff, is something that city officials started discussing after it was brought up at a council meeting, and a temporary solution was approved at Tuesday night's meeting.

The city plans to add a curb-like edging along the path to help channel the water down to the beach, City Adminstrator Mark Grams said. The small improvement shouldn't cost more than $500, an amount that is easily available in the city's budget.

"At least for the smaller rains that we might have, and even the moderate rains that we might have — that channel should … at least keep most of the pathway clear of the mud and the water," Grams said.

But, what about the bigger rains — and long-term issues with bluff drainage?

While the city isn't set to make a decision on a long-term, costly project, it did decide to look into possible options.

Roger Tietz and Gary Jackson from Edward E. Gillen Company attended Tuesday night's meeting to give the council information about its unique wick drain system.

The wick drain system uses horizontal drilling to install the system, which sends the water from the bluff directly to Lake Michigan.

"It’s a very cost-effective solution for your problem … it adjusts the direct cause, maintains land integrity and value," Tietz said.

Jackson gave rough estimate to city officials, saying it could cost between $30,000 and $45,000 depending on the number of wicks installed — but added that these estimates are very loosely based because a geotechnical report still needs to be completed to determine the work that needs to be done.

This report can cost $11,000 itself, Jackson said; though that number is also loosely based as his company does not complete such work.

Gillen has been installing these wick systems for about 10 years, including for a home on the bluff in Fox Point and a house in Grafton, as well as other locations.

Aldermen thanked Jackson and Tietz for their time, but the council as a whole realized more research needed to be done before making a decision. The council plans to have City Engineer Rob Vanden Noven consult with the necessary experts before again reviewing the issue at the Board of Public Works committee meeting.

"I think the wick system is logical and economical. If you want to absolutely stabilize a bluff, I see it as a component and not the end of the story," Vanden Noven said. "And, again, it all starts with a geotechnical engineer."