The goal of the Friends of the Port Clinton Parks is to have permanent restrooms in place at Waterworks Park in Port Clinton in time for the Memorial Day weekend crowds and the popular Walleye Festival at the park on May 25-29. (Photo by D’Arcy Patrick Egan)

BY D’ARCY PATRICK EGAN

Seldom does a year go by that doesn’t included a major enhancement at Waterworks Park on the shores of Lake Erie in downtown Port Clinton. It’s difficult to match the Port Clinton Lighthouse, the Portage River Walkway, the sandy beach improvements or noted sculptor Andy Sacksteder’s “The Lightkeeper” bronze statue.

But quietly catching the attention of the growing number of park visitors this month is a building being created in the Port Clinton Lighthouse complex next to the Boathouse. It’s not especially glamorous, but to park regulars, its functionality is very welcoming.

It’s a comfort station, or restrooms, the first permanent facility at Waterworks park after a few years of the City of Port Clinton relying on unsightly — but necessary — portable restrooms for its various events throughout the year. It had been the mission of the Friends of the Port Clinton Parks to raise almost $200,000 to create the restrooms.

“Our goal is to have the restrooms completed in time for the Memorial Day crowds and the popular Walleye Festival at Waterworks Park on May 25-29,” said Debbie Hymore-tester. “We’re running a bit over budget, so we’ll be asking for donations to help cover the increased cost of construction over the past year.”

Contributions can be sent to Dave Mehl, 105 Hayes Ave., Port Clinton OH 43452.

The efforts of the Friends of the Port Clinton Parks have been legendary, from creating restrooms at the busy Lakeview Park to the east a few years ago, and spearheading a drive to purchase Sacksteder’s sculpture, which had been on loan, for $47,000.

Waterworks Park has parking areas and lots of walkways, all with wonderful views of beautiful Lake Erie. There are now 16 sponsored benches scattered about and a paved pathway around Derby Pond that is perfect for a stroll or jog.

Picnic tables are available thanks to sponsors, and are compatible in design with the benches, the Lighthouse and the Boathouse, just a few feet from the new restrooms.