The Port of San Diego has completed the bidding process for the Shelter Island Boat Launch Facility Improvement Project, with construction expected soon concluding in March 2018.
One of the busiest boat launch ramps in California, with an estimated 50,000 launches annually, the approximately $9.5 million improvement project was designed with extensive public outreach. It has received funding from the California Department of Boating and Waterways and the Wildlife Conservation Board.
The bidding process for the project is complete and a contract award is imminent. Pending contract approval, construction is expected to begin in late April or early May and conclude in March 2018.
Constructed in the mid-1950s with a single-lane concrete launch ramp, Shelter Island boat launch’s last major improvement was completed in the mid-1970s when the existing 10-lane boat launching ramp was constructed. The facility is used by recreational boaters from the general public, including small yachts, inboard and out-board motorboats, private fishing boats, fishing tournament boats and amphibious tour buses.
“This project recognizes that the boat launch needs to be enlarged, made more safe and more navigable and maneuverable making it easier for boats to move around within the basin once they’re in the water,” said Brianne Page, marketing and public relations representative for the Port District. “It will increase the length of the boarding floats. We’ll be installing a public walking platform with viewing areas. We’ll also be installing more signage and better lighting, as well as bring the restrooms up to current ADA standards.”
Due to safety concerns and to allow construction to occur, the Shelter Island facility will be closed to the public during most of construction. One lane will remain open during the peak summer months. But ramp users should expect delays if launching from the SIBL during the summer months. They are urged to utilize several alternate launch facilities throughout the area.
Page noted one lane at the Shelter Island Boat Launch will remain open during summer months, “boaters can expect delays. So we encourage the boating public to find an alternative boat launch facility in the area to use.”
Regarding the boat launch’s construction, Page noted, “We’re (Port) doing everything possible to minimize the impacts on the surrounding community.”
The Port of San Diego is a self-supporting public-benefit corporation established in 1962 by an act of the California State Legislature. it is located on San Diego Bay. Alternate boat launches San Diego Bay, 2869 Historic Decatur Road in Liberty Station; MCRD Boat House, 131 Neville Road; Glorietta Bay public boat launch, 1975 Strand Way (will be undergoing reconstruction and will not be available for use from April through the end of May); Mission Bay Dana Landing, 2580 Ingraham St.; Mission Bay South Shores, S. Shores Park Driveway; Mission Bay Ski Boat Launch Ramp, Ingraham Street & Vacation Road; Mission Bay Santa Clara Point, 1001 Santa Clara Place; Mission Bay De Anza Cove boat launch, E. Mission Bay Drive.