Town of Strasburg seeks deed of easement for Riverwalk parking and boat ramp on school property

The Shenandoah County School Board heard information on April 27 about a Town of Strasburg project to extend the Strasburg Riverwalk with a small parking area, access path and boat ramp that would cross or use a portion of school-owned land adjacent to Strasburg High School.

Superintendent Dr. Shepherd said the town received a grant that will cover construction costs, including roughly 10 to 15 parking spaces and installation of a path and boat ramp. The board previously approved the concept on Feb. 13, and staff told members the next step is consideration of a deed of easement, which will appear on the board’s May 13 action agenda.

Town Manager Melanie Shipe attended to answer questions about site access, flood risk and maintenance. In the discussion board members confirmed the town would be responsible for building and maintaining the improvements and that the school division retains the right to limit or close access at any time to protect students and school operations. Staff told the board the easement term was described on the slide as a 25-year term and that the easement could not be transferred without permission.

Board members asked about access points (Holiday Street vs. High Street), whether the site is in a floodplain and who would be responsible for damage to private property if a boat in the parking area were carried by a flood. Staff responded that property owners who leave items (for example a boat) would be responsible for those items, and that routine patrols and posted signage were expected. The board directed staff to place the deed of easement on the May 13 action agenda for formal consideration.