Sure must be tough being so dependent on factors beyond your control.
Central Texas lake-area businesses dependent on customers being in, on or near water want you to know three things heading into Memorial Day weekend: Last summer wasn’t as bad as you might have thought, the water levels are up, and this summer is going to be better.
At Shore Club Volente Beach, Rick Redmond, the owner and operator, spent an estimated $800,000 spiffing up the park last year, adding upscale dining, a concert-ready stage, rental lake houses and other attractions.
Despite the drought, he said, “I felt like we had a good year last year.”
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Lake Travis is 28 feet lower than its May average and 7 feet below its level this time last year, according to the Lower Colorado River Authority.
Still, periodic rains through the winter and spring have resulted in rising levels.
Lake Austin’s level is near constant, so drought or no drought, Lake Austin Marina manager Mark Flood is braced for big business.
“We’re anticipating huge crowds,” Flood said. “There’s three big holidays over the summer — Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day — and those are just huge out here.”
I sure hope conditions continue to improve. Another dry summer or two, and it won’t just be these guys in a world of hurt.