Fishing enthusiasts will soon be able to cast their lines into the water at Gilbert Reservoir, and a couple additions could be available by the summer’s end at Marilla Reservoir.

Steve Disney, executive director of the Bradford City Water Authority, said the projects in Bradford Township have been in process for nearly eight weeks.

“Once the Gilbert Reservoir is completed, there are plans to build a fishing pier and a canoe launch for the Marilla Reservoir,” Disney said.
The projects, funded by a grant for recreational improvement, will cost $108,000 upon completion, and Disney said that this will be a great recreational addition for locals to enjoy.

“Both reservoirs are absolutely beautiful, and are visited and enjoyed frequently by locals. These additions will add to that experience and enjoyment,” Disney said.

Although the Gilbert Reservoir hasn’t opened yet, Disney said the work is completed.

“We are still refilling it, but we’re also waiting on the approval by the (state) Division of Dam Safety,” he said.

As for the Marilla Reservoir additions, Disney said the project will take longer than the Gilbert Reservoir.

He explained that the reservoir must be lowered to be able to build the foundation blocks for the canoe launch. The construction of the canoe launch will begin sometime next week and will take about two to four weeks to complete.

“The Marilla Reservoir will still be completely open, so people can still come out and enjoy it for the summer,” he said. “The only area that will be closed off is a new trail that isn’t available yet. As stated before, the reservoir will be lowered for about 30 days so the foundation can be built, but also so the Gilbert Reservoir can be refilled as well.”

Both reservoirs will be handicap accessible, being made possible by the construction of M&M Contractors of Johnsonburg.