GARRARD COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) — Local marinas are reporting a surge in business this summer.
Chimney Rock Marina in Mercer County reports that every weekend this summer has been as busy as a holiday weekend.
The same goes for Kamp Kennedy Marina in Garrard County where the owners said boat slips have been consistently full.
Both marinas said people are seeking an escape where they can socially distance out on the water amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
"They're able to get outside and enjoy it and be together but not be on top of everybody else or be close to everybody else, so I think that's probably the biggest reason," boat owner Butch Mellott said.
Mellott, who has had a slip at Kamp Kennedy for four years added that owner Megan Jones has been receiving many more calls than usual from people inquiring about boat slips this summer. Both Mellott and Jones project a 15-20% increase.
"When we're in the restaurant or I have to be talking with Megan about something going on at the dock itself, the phone is always ringing," Mellott said. "It's a lot more activity than it has been the last few years."
Jones predicts that people will continue flocking to our lakes to escape from the cities. As in years past, Kamp Kennedy will remain open until November.