Our docks have given us nearly 40 years of memories on the water...
...will you help us secure 40 more?
For nearly 40 years, our beloved “E” docking system has weathered storms and welcomed thousands of visitors—whether heading out on a Sunfish, paddleboard, or simply enjoying the view. Though built to last, the planks are now splintering and cracking under the strain of New England weather. While we’ve made ongoing repairs, a full overhaul is needed to ensure safety and longevity.
This renovation will include:
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Replacing anchor chains, deck planks, and bumpers
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Manufacturing and installing new cleats and hardware
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Constructing a new gangway and entryway
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Improvements and additions to the rowing dock
Originally built in the late-1980s, our docks were designed to last—and they have. But after decades of exposure to the elements, they need a complete rebuild. We’ve done our best to maintain them, but repairs alone are no longer enough.
Extensive research estimates the cost at nearly $250,000 - a number we can’t meet alone. Thanks to a generous $20,000 initial contribution, we’ve launched our campaign, but we need your help to complete the work by summer 2027.
Our docks are the foundation of our program. Without them, we can’t provide the experiences that make the Greater Lawrence Community Boating Program so special. Every donation, big or small, will help ensure future generations can continue to enjoy the Merrimack River.
Buy a Plank
- a special level of giving.
With a donation of $500, "Buy a Plank" donors will have their donation name engraved into a section of a plank on the rebuilt docks as a permanent thank you from us!
Every donation, big or small, will help ensure future generations can continue to enjoy the Merrimack River.
Timeline
Keep track of our progress to date and see what is on the horizon. Subscribe to stay in the know!
SPRING 2023
Greater Lawrence Community Boating Program's Board of Directors commissions the Dock Rehabilitation Committee (DRC) charged with evaluating the current conditions of our docking systems, creating a proposal for rehabilitation, and bringing the project to completion. DRC begins survey of current conditions and begins preparing outline of needs.
SPRING 2024
Dock Rehabilitation Committee presents findings to the Board of Directors and begins full report of needs and costs.
SPRING 2025
HERE
Stay Afloat capital campaign announced, launched with $20,000 initial donation and appeal letter. We need your help, please DONATE today!
SUMMER 2025
Repairs to anchors and chains begin.
SUMMER 2026
Continued fundraising will allow for components to be addressed such as hardware, components, and rowing dock repairs to be carried out.
Fall 2026
Construction firms invited to bid on project drafted by DRC. Work to include redecking of system, float repairs, and bumper repairs - work that the organization would not be able to carry out without professional services.
WINTER/SPRING 2027
The DRC will evaluate and select a contractor that aligns with our budget and dedication to this project. Work on the project will begin.
SUMMER 2027
Grand reopening of our docking system to the public with special event.
Our 2027 goal is not possible without your help! Please make this project a success with a donation today!
Want to stay up to date on our progress with this exciting project? Fill your email out below and we'll send news and periodic updates straight to your inbox!
Future dates are estimated and timeline will be updated as our fundraising and planning efforts progress.
Donors
Thank you to all who have donated to this project so far. Our work is not possible without your support!
Add your name to the list:
$510.65 In memory of Doris and George Trebat Plank Donor
$510.65 The Family of James E. Griffin Plank Donor
$510.65 Captain Cameron G. Brien Plank Donor
$510.65 Brien Oil Company & The Brien Family Plank Donor
$510.65 Erich Friedrich Plank Donor
$510.65 In Memory of James E Griffin Plank Donor
$510.65 David Morton Plank Donor
$20,000 GLCBP Board of Directors Campaign Kickoff
Add your name to the list:
Committee
Meet the team behind the Dock Rehabilitation Committee
Erich Friedrich
Dock Rehabilitation Committee Chair, GLCBP Board of Directors
Former Waterfront Director
Erich's involvement at the Greater Lawrence Community Boating Program began during his freshman year of high school through Greater Lawrence Rowing where he competed with the team throughout high school. Upon entering college Erich joined the summer staff where he both learned and taught sailing to members, eventually serving as the Waterfront Director. Through a continued passion for sailing and the program, Erich volunteers his time as a board member and assists with the assembly/disassembly of the docking system every year. Erich works full time at an architecture firm in Newburyport and is actively pursuing his architectural license.
David Morton
GLCBP Board of Directors
Former Waterfront Director, Former Sailing Director
David's time at the Greater Lawrence Community Boating Program began nearly 20 years ago, learning how to sail at the young age of eight. Over his involvement in the program, he has served as Waterfront Director for the Summer Program as well as Sailing Director for the competitive sailing team at its inception in 2019. His time on the Merrimack during his youth made way for future "big boat" sailing and racing off the coast of Maine, and a desire to return as a member of the GLCBP Board of Directors to give back to the program. David works full time in print and direct-mail marketing right in our hometown of Lawrence.
Capt. Cameron Brien
GLCBP Board of Directors
Former Sailing Instructor
Cam began sailing at the Greater Lawrence Community Boating Program with his grandfather, Jim Griffin, at the age of two months old in the summer of 1992. In the more than three decades in which Cam has been involved in our program he has been a member, a volunteer, a staff member, and now a member of the board of directors. Learning to sail at "The Boat House" on the Merrimack River gave Cam a lifelong passion for being on the water, which eventually blossomed into a career as a Merchant Mariner. Today Cam still works at sea as Captain on many different types of vessels, large and small, all over the world.
Get Involved!
Can you help us bring this project to completion?
Our program is fueled by the hearts of volunteers like yourself. Are you able to help us get this project off the ground in any way? We'd love to hear from you! Click the link below to get in touch with our committee and let's get a conversation started!
Want to stay up to date on our progress with this exciting project? Fill your email out below and we'll send news and periodic updates straight to your inbox!