Mobi-Mats for Gunnison Beach
Donation protected
Eric Daly and I met with the National Park Service (NPS) Ranger this week. The park does not want to construct a permanent structure again. Therefore, our only option is to extend the length of the Mobi-Mat®. These are the facts as we know them right now:
1. The mats are approximately $3,759 per 100 feet. We are trying to get a better price but that was the price quoted to the NPS.
2. Due to coastal regulations and wildlife laws, the mats can only be placed up to the first "Beyond this point you may encounter nude sunbathers" sign. There is a slight possibility of further extension but permits would need to be obtained by the NPS on our behalf.
3. Eric measured the length needed to reach the sign and it is approximately 700 feet.
4. Due to federal contractual regulations, the park can only make single purchases like this in increments of $2,500 or less without encountering other issues. The park has very limited funds. Those funds go toward a lot of different projects, including environmental cleanups. Which cost millions of dollars. Our contact is looking to see what they can put towards some new mats but for the most part, it is on us.
5. If we raise enough money for the mats, they would be donated by us to the NPS for the express purpose that they be used at Gunnison Beach during the regular season. By us donating the mats, we avoid the park purchasing restrictions mentioned previously.
6. To purchase 700 feet of mat will be a challenge. However, we can purchase and install in stages. Every 100 feet is that much less of a struggle.
The beach is a home and haven to many regulars, including Eric and myself. I was around when the Friends of Gunnison campaigned to raise money for the old boardwalk and I happily donated money. Those who love the beach as much as we do should have no issue donating again. We feel this is a very feasible goal and this is the reason for this campaign.
We need everyone to spread the word and make the vision a reality. Money raised will only be used for Mobi-Mat purchases for Gunnison Beach. The NPS will install them at no charge and remove and replace them at the beginning and end of each season.
Thanks for your support,
Erika Gravato
1. The mats are approximately $3,759 per 100 feet. We are trying to get a better price but that was the price quoted to the NPS.
2. Due to coastal regulations and wildlife laws, the mats can only be placed up to the first "Beyond this point you may encounter nude sunbathers" sign. There is a slight possibility of further extension but permits would need to be obtained by the NPS on our behalf.
3. Eric measured the length needed to reach the sign and it is approximately 700 feet.
4. Due to federal contractual regulations, the park can only make single purchases like this in increments of $2,500 or less without encountering other issues. The park has very limited funds. Those funds go toward a lot of different projects, including environmental cleanups. Which cost millions of dollars. Our contact is looking to see what they can put towards some new mats but for the most part, it is on us.
5. If we raise enough money for the mats, they would be donated by us to the NPS for the express purpose that they be used at Gunnison Beach during the regular season. By us donating the mats, we avoid the park purchasing restrictions mentioned previously.
6. To purchase 700 feet of mat will be a challenge. However, we can purchase and install in stages. Every 100 feet is that much less of a struggle.
The beach is a home and haven to many regulars, including Eric and myself. I was around when the Friends of Gunnison campaigned to raise money for the old boardwalk and I happily donated money. Those who love the beach as much as we do should have no issue donating again. We feel this is a very feasible goal and this is the reason for this campaign.
We need everyone to spread the word and make the vision a reality. Money raised will only be used for Mobi-Mat purchases for Gunnison Beach. The NPS will install them at no charge and remove and replace them at the beginning and end of each season.
Thanks for your support,
Erika Gravato
Organizer
Erika H
Organizer
Newark, NJ