Elgin to consider changing city law to allow Fox River pedal boating

Not a fan of gambling? You could soon have another boating option in downtown Elgin.

The Elgin City Council tonight will consider a change in city law that will pave the way for Elgin resident Justin Hodge to launch a pedal boat operation on the Fox River at Festival Park.

"I'm an entrepreneur, so I'm thinking we have this river and I've been born and raised in Elgin and there's no activity like this along the river," Hodge said. "This type of business, it will be the first for the city of Elgin."

Hodge intends to open Blue Hippo Pedal Boats at a boat launch just up river from the Grand Victoria Casino. He's also planning a stand called Jah's Concessions.

Hodge says he has two, two-person boats and two, four-person boats. He also is trying to buy a water bike that seats two people.

Hours will be from 10 a.m. to sunset and people may pedal north to Walton Island near the Kimball Street dam or south to the Route 20 overpass.

Hodge said he has talked with officials at the Grand Victoria, who are OK with the pedal boats as long as they are 15 to 20 feet away from the riverboat.

"They can handle the current on the Fox River," he added.

The cost would be $10 per hour for each adult and $7 for kids, although Hodge is considering a 2-for-1 special this season, which would run through October. Hodge also says he has purchased $1 million in liability insurance.

"I think it will be well received," said Randy Reopelle, the city's parks and recreation department director. "It will give people some activity, some leisure and some exercise."

Hodge says if he gets council approval, he plans to open next week.