Shelter Island Boat Launch Ramp Improvement Options to be Presented at Public Meeting

Shelter Island Boat Launch Ramp Improvement Options to be Presented at Public Meeting

Wednesday, 05 September 2007

Maritime News

The public boat launch ramp on Shelter Island in San Diego has been a big success since its opening in 1956. Over the years, the 51- year old ramp has served the boating community of San Diego and southern California as well as boaters from other states. The popular ramp was rehabilitated in 1976 and needs refurbishment because of the heavy use and wear.

To address the need to upgrade the facility, the Port of San Diego was awarded a $150,000 grant from the Department of Boating and Waterways to conduct a feasibility study on possible improvements for the ramp and to conduct public outreach to seek input from the community. Last April, the Port hired Noble Consultants to conduct the study to evaluate alternatives for the ramp.

Since then, Noble Consultants and Port staff met with members of the San Diego Port Tenants Association, the boating community and the general public to hear how the launch ramp area is used and what concerns the public may have. After reviewing the public comments, the consultants studied several options. Some of the alternatives included repositioning the dock, enlarging the boat basin, and constructing a floating breakwater.

The three most feasible options will be presented at a public meeting scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 12 in the Training Room of the Port’s Administration Building, located at 3165 Pacific Highway in San Diego. The public is encouraged to attend and provide input.

Once the final option is determined, the Port and the Department of Boating and Waterways will develop a strategy to fund and complete the improvements.