Sharon Woods Harbor Revitalization
Sharon Woods Harbor Revitalization
Projects at Great Parks
Sharon Woods Harbor Revitalization
Project Dates
Sharon Woods Harbor serves as a major hub of activity in one of Great Parks’ most visited destinations. Its revitalization focuses on reimagining the harbor experience and understanding how the area can better serve guests through facility design, programming, nature exploration opportunities and more. With community input, Great Parks is creating a more vibrant and inclusive space for boating, playing, learning and gathering.
The project is guided by Great Parks’ Comprehensive Master Plan and Park & Facility Master Plans, completed in 2019 to establish a community-driven vision for parks, facilities and services. As the programmatic heart of Sharon Woods, the revitalization of the harbor (including the boathouse, playground, snack bar, parking and restroom amenities) supports agency-wide goals for conservation, access, innovation and outstanding guest experiences. Design and planning for the harbor are shaped by key implementation priorities identified through the master planning process, which include expanding access for all users, adding programming and events for diverse audiences, building ecological resiliency and strengthening partnerships.
Construction Impacts & Closures
The following are expected to have temporary closures:
- Harbor playground: February & March 2026
- Entry drive from Kemper Road: fall 2026 (harbor parking area still accessible from within Sharon Woods via Highbanks)
The following are closed from November 2026 through the project's completion:
- Harbor area (playground, restrooms, boathouse and parking)
- Portion of Sharon Lake Loop Trail passing through the harbor
Tentative Project Timeline
| DATE | ACTIVITY |
|---|---|
| Spring 2024 | Community engagement & design work begins |
| Winter/Spring 2026 | Site preparation |
| Summer 2026 | Design work completed |
| Fall 2026-Winter 2027 | Construction underway |
| Spring 2028 | Harbor area reopens |
Downloads
Contact Us
For additional questions about the project, contact Great Parks.
COST & FUNDING
Special Thanks
With public input, design, permitting, construction and reopening phases, the harbor revitalization project is anticipated to cost more than $16 million.
For its support of the project thus far, Great Parks extends sincere thanks to The James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Foundation.
Great Parks will provide the remaining funds through its current capital project budget, additional grants and other funding sources.
The Sharon Woods Harbor Revitalization complements another major investment at Sharon Woods, the Sharon Lake Improvement Project.