A Look at Merritt Point Park's Boat Ramp Project and Hydrauli-Flex Hoses
Merritt Point Park in Dundalk, Maryland, is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from picturesque waterfront views to excellent recreational facilities. For years, the park’s dual-lane boat ramp has provided easy access to Bullneck Creek and the Chesapeake Bay for fishermen, boaters, and paddlers alike. However, like all infrastructure, the ramp has experienced the wear and tear of time, requiring much-needed upgrades.
Due to erosion, poor construction planning, and the natural forces of sand and water, the boat ramp had developed significant issues. From deep ruts forming at the end of the ramp to trailer wheels getting stuck in the drop-offs, the situation became unsafe for boaters and increasingly expensive to maintain. As part of a broader effort to revitalize the park, Baltimore County Government decided to invest in an extensive renovation project aimed at improving the boat ramp and the surrounding area.
This renovation, which totals a $1 million investment, is supported by nearly $900,000 in state and federal waterways and boating grants, and is one of the county’s first major projects of its kind in over 15 years. The improvements will ensure safer, smoother, and more enjoyable outdoor experiences for visitors, while also creating jobs and stimulating local economic growth. To complete this important project, Specialty Underwater Services and CYR's Marine were selected to handle the installation of a new boat launch using advanced equipment from International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE).
Innovative Equipment for a Complex Job
One of the key pieces of machinery used in the construction of the new boat ramp was the ICE® I-8V2 Diesel Impact Hammer. As the smallest member of ICE’s diesel hammer family, the I-8V2 is designed for compact workspaces and smaller-scale operations like the Merritt Point Park boat ramp. The ability to complete the task with a more compact, cost-effective machine not only saved the contractor valuable space but also reduced overall costs for the project.
The I-8V2 was used to install timber piles, 10 inches in diameter and 30 feet in length, deep into the ground, providing a secure foundation for the new ramp. Afterward, the ICE® 416L Vibratory Driver/Extractor was used to drive fiberglass sheets on the sides of the ramp to serve as wave attenuators. These sheets, partially submerged underwater, help reduce the impact of oncoming waves by shrinking their size, improving the overall stability of the ramp and protecting it from future erosion.
The Role of Hydrauli-Flex Hoses in Heavy-Duty Equipment
As impressive as the machinery is, it wouldn’t be able to operate without the right hydraulic components. Hydraulic hoses, like the Hydrauli-Flex Hoses provided by The Hose Company, are crucial for powering this heavy-duty equipment. These hoses transfer pressurized fluids to machinery, enabling it to perform its tasks smoothly and efficiently.
For construction and industrial machinery—like the impact hammer and vibratory driver/extractor used in this project—durable, flexible hoses are essential for handling high pressures and harsh environments. Hydrauli-Flex Hoses are built to endure the movement, vibration, and stress typical in construction and industrial applications, ensuring reliable performance and longevity.
At The Hose Company, we understand the importance of using top-quality hoses for critical machinery. That’s why we offer a full range of hydraulic and industrial hoses, fittings, and custom assemblies. With over 10 years of industry experience, we’re proud to provide solutions that keep your equipment running at peak performance, whether you're working on a park renovation or any other major infrastructure project.
Conclusion
The Merritt Point Park boat ramp renovation is a shining example of how essential infrastructure investments can improve safety, enhance the community, and provide a lasting impact on local economic growth. We applaud the excellent work of Specialty Underwater Services and CYR's Marine, and we are honored to support these projects with high-quality hydraulic hose products designed for demanding applications.
If you're involved in construction, industrial, or infrastructure projects and need reliable hydraulic hoses, fittings, and custom assemblies, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how Hydrauli-Flex Hoses and The Hose Company’s products can keep your operations running smoothly.
