Superior Council OKs land purchase to add more water access

Oct. 5—SUPERIOR — City officials are planning to open up more access to the water of Allouez Bay.

The Superior City Council approved purchasing the Bunge Dock at the end of 44th Avenue East on Tuesday, Oct. 3. The vacant dock was once the location of the Itasca Grain Elevator.

The city will purchase the 52-acre parcel, which include 22 acres of upland and 30 acres in the water, for $200,000.

"This was platted many, many years ago, much like Chicago," said Jason Serck, economic development, port and planning director. "They platted lands into the water. These lands were given legal descriptions and deeds. For future fill-in potential, future expansion, things of that nature."

Serck said the platted lands in the water go with the uplands.

"I recommend the purchase of this property outright," said Mayor Jim Paine. "That is still in the best interest for the city to own this property ... it's a pretty special water access."

City officials applied for a grant through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for the property Paine said, but the status of the grant is unknown.

The grant would help engage the public to determine what kinds of amenities people would like to see on the site, said Linda Cadotte, parks, recreation and forestry director.

Cadotte was among city staff who worked with the Bunge Corporation of Chesterfield, Missouri to negotiate the purchase, which includes privately-owned railroad property used by the Power Squadron.

Funding for the purchase will come from the capital improvement program, park funding and the economic development fund. The sale is expected to close Oct. 20.

"This has been in motion for some time, and I just want to recognized Linda Cadotte who put a lot of work into this acquisition," said Councilor Jenny Van Sickle. "This is kind of a funny water access, but it is a major point for recreation, particularly in the winter."