Key facts
- Location
- 200 Wotton St., Chelmsford, Merrimack River
- Ramp width
- 15 feet
- Material
- Cast-in-place concrete
- Features
- Prop-wash protection, close parking
- Agreement
- Town of Chelmsford and state Office of Fishing and Boating Access
- Officials present
- Commissioner Tom O’Shea, Rep. Rodney Elliott, Col. John Monaghan
Background
For years, the boat ramp into the Merrimack River off Wotton Street in Chelmsford had been deteriorating. On Aug. 4, 2026, state and local officials celebrated the completion of a project to improve access to the river for boaters and first responders.
The new ramp is 15 feet wide and made of cast-in-place concrete, with built-in prop-wash protection and close parking for vehicles. The project was made possible through a land management agreement between the town of Chelmsford and the state Office of Fishing and Boating Access.
Current situation
At a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Department of Fish and Game Commissioner Tom O’Shea said the river was always an attraction for fishing and boating, and many people will now have the same ability to connect with nature. He called the Merrimack River 'one of the state’s most important rivers.'
State Rep. Rodney Elliott, whose district includes part of Chelmsford, said the project was one of the first things he took on when he joined the Legislature in 2022. He called it 'an important investment in our public outdoors.'
Massachusetts Environmental Police Col. John Monaghan said the ramp 'closes a critical gap' in first responder access, giving them another reliable point to get personnel on the river when minutes and seconds matter.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Ramp width | 15 feet |
| Material | Cast-in-place concrete |
| Prop-wash protection | Built-in |
| Parking | Close parking for vehicles |
| Agreement | Town of Chelmsford and state Office of Fishing and Boating Access |
Impacts
The improved ramp benefits recreational users such as anglers, boaters, and families, as well as first responders who need quick access to the river. Elliott cited accidents in that area in 2017, including at least one fatal incident, to underscore the need for better access.
Monaghan noted that from a public safety perspective, the ramp provides access, and from a young person's perspective, it provides freedom. He said the project gives first responders another reliable point of access and encourages people to enjoy the river.
Future outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If the ramp is maintained and used as intended, it could continue to serve both recreational and emergency needs for years to come. The project may also complement ongoing infrastructure work, such as the new Rourke Bridge, which Elliott mentioned.
However, the long-term impact will depend on factors such as maintenance, usage patterns, and future funding. If the ramp deteriorates again, similar improvements may be needed, but for now, officials are optimistic about the benefits.
Source: lowellsun.com
