The Port of San Diego is proceeding with a $9.5 million project to upgrade the Shelter Island boat launch, which is thought to be the busiest in California.
The project will enlarge the maneuvering area, replace the worn-out launch ramp, increase the lengths of the boarding floats, provide a concrete drop-off area for kayaks, and bring the restroom up to current standards. The facility was built in the 1950s and last upgraded in the 1970s.
“Making these improvements to the Shelter Island boat launch ramp is an absolute necessity,” said Marshall Merrifield, chairman of the board of port commissioners. “It is the most widely used launch ramp on San Diego Bay and is an essential component to the bay’s recreational activities.”
The Shelter Island ramp is believed to be the busiest boat ramp in California, with an estimated 50,000 launches annually.
Funding was provided by the California Natural Resources Agency and California Division of Boating & Waterways. Construction is expected to begin in early 2017.
