The Sabine River Authority of Texas (SRA) recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new Lake Fork Recreation Facility to be constructed west of Hwy. 154 in Wood County near Caney Creek.

The new facility is part of SRA’s economic development program to enhance recreational opportunities throughout the Sabine River Basin, fulfilling SRA’s obligation to assist in the development of the basin. 

The Lake Fork Recreation Facility will include a pavilion, multi-lane boat ramp, public parking and restroom facilities to accommodate local and national fishing tournaments, community gatherings and recreation enthusiasts on Lake Fork Reservoir.

Clearing the area has already begun. An entrance roadway will be constructed to access the facility from Hwy. 154, with anticipated completion in the fall of 2021. 

Swearingen Park, located across Hwy. 154 and east of the facility under construction, has recently been updated with state-of-the-art playground equipment incorporating all-inclusive activities. A special rubber flooring was installed for safety as well as to allow wheelchair access.

Additional improvements are underway including repaving and new pavilions to enhance the park which will become part of the new Lake Fork Recreation Facility. 

Wood County Judge Lucy Hebron attended the groundbreaking ceremony and was excited with the recent improvements.

“Wood County and all of East Texas are very privileged to have this new Lake Fork Recreation Facility located at Lake Fork, off of Highway 154,” she said. “The new facility will enhance the outdoor experience for all residents and visitors to our county, from the very young to the not so young. The public will be able to enjoy the current area and the planned expansion areas for many years to come, providing enjoyment to all of one of our beautiful resources. We appreciate the Sabine River Authority and their efforts to make this area happen.”

David Montagne, executive vice president and general manager of the Sabine River Authority of Texas, said, “In addition to being a major water supply reservoir for the East Texas area, Lake Fork has earned a global reputation as a premier largemouth bass fishery. Lake Fork Reservoir continues to positively impact our local and regional economies while providing a high quality, dependable supply of surface water. The construction of these new recreational facilities will provide a first-class venue to host large scale fishing tournaments and other large group events.” 

Created by the legislature in 1949, the Sabine River Authority of Texas is an official agency of the state. The authority was created as a conservation and reclamation district with responsibilities to control, store, preserve and distribute the waters of the Sabine River and its tributary streams for useful purposes.