About the Boat Launch
The Ohio River Boat Launch is located at the intersection of North 6th and Burnett Streets (275 Burnett Street) just north of downtown and the Paducah-McCracken County Convention Centers. It was constructed in 2013 and finished in 2014 using a $2.25 million Federal Highway Administration grant.
- Lighted facility with surveillance equipment
- 5-6 lane boat ramp
- 85-space parking area
- Courtesy dock - Length of dock depends upon the Ohio River stage. When all sections are available, the courtesy dock is 8 by 80 feet.
To access the Boat Launch, cross the concrete Greenway Trail constructed on the top of the floodwall levee.
Fishing and Fishing Tournaments
Signs have been installed at the Ohio River Boat Launch facility to deter people from parking on the entry road and on the boat launch itself. Fishing is allowed at the Boat Launch, but anglers are asked to fish from the river bank and not from the boat launch ramp or dock since those areas are provided for the loading and unloading of boats.
For fishing tournaments, contact the Customer Experience Department at 270-444-8800 for a Special Event Permit.
Ribbon Cutting - 2014
The ribbon cutting ceremony for the Ohio River Boat Launch was held October 22, 2014. A bald eagle flew over the ceremony at the beginning, very impressive coincidence. Mayor Gayle Kaler, Commissioner Sandra Wilson, Commissioner Allan Rhodes, Commissioner Carol Gault, City Manager Jeff Pederson, Parks and Recreation Director Mark Thompson, and City Engineer-Public Works Director Rick Murphy spoke at the event. The Paducah Tilghman JROTC Color Guard led off the ceremony.
Ohio River Boat Launch photo at top of page courtesy of Civil Design Group-Shawnee Professional Services.
