RIVERSIDE — The town is getting a $50,000 grant to improve its new marina.

“We have a lot of good things planned,” said Mayor Rusty Jessup. “There are a lot of little things that need to be completed.”

He said the $50,000 will go a long way in improving the city marina, which provides public access to Logan Martin Lake, not only for Riverside residents, but for everyone.

“That’s a crown jewel over there,” Jessup said.

He said that’s why the Town Council is moving slowly with the development of the marina.

“We want to get it right,” Jessup said.

Gov. Bob Riley announced that Riverside was approved for the $50,000 grant.

“Whether it is the emerald water along the coast or one of our beautiful inland lakes, Alabamians are drawn to water for recreation and relaxation,” Riley said. “This project will improve an already popular destination and encourage greater enjoyment of the outdoors.”

Jessup said the town will have to match the grant.

He said the grant money will help build a pier for the gasoline pump at the marina and the construction of a boardwalk along the west side of the slough.

Jessup said the town has already obtained the necessary permit for the gasoline pump pier but is still awaiting approval for the boardwalk.

He said the town has already built a pier, fixed the marina’s bathrooms and completed some landscaping work around the facility.

“It’s open for launching boats,” Jessup said. “It’s been making a little money for us.”

He said the marina is bringing in about $800 a month from launching fees, since the marina opened in March.

Jessup said the town purchased the marina for $315,000 last December with state and federal grant money.

He said the town will eventually find the right tenant to lease the facility. The tenant will operate a convenience store and the marina.

Jessup said the town will use part of the grant money to upgrade the marina’s camping area, designated as an official Alabama Scenic River Trail camp. The overnight camp area is only available for people paddling the 431-mile Alabama Scenic River Trail.

Contact David Atchison at datchison@dailyhome.com