Port of San Diego Reports Progress on Boat Launch Ramp Repairs

The Shelter Island Boat Launch Ramp’s west floating dock at the Port of San Diego. Photo: POSD.

The Port of San Diego said Oct. 18 that efforts are progressing regarding repair of its Shelter Island Boat Launch Ramp’s west floating dock, which bottomed out at low tide in June 2023 due to sand accumulation beneath it, prompting the west dock’s closure.

(The east floating docks are still open and accessible.)

Challenges in in-water work, obtaining the necessary U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permits, the unique build of the floating dock and other factors have contributed to a longer-than-expected repair process, according to the port.

The port’s engineering department and consultants found that “gaps in the western wall of the facility, designed to allow for some wave attenuation, had widened more than anticipated, and filter fabric installed during construction to prevent some anticipated sand migration had deteriorated.”

So far, an Army Corps permit has been obtained, and the port has an agreement with dock builder Bellingham Marine to construct a new, custom-designed dock for $266,114 and the Board of Port Commissioners on Oct. 17 approved a $386,775 contract with Harbour Constructors Co. to finish the necessary work to restore the dock and protect it from future issues.

The work includes removal of the damaged dock and about 250 cubic yards of sand, and the installation of a new dock and neoprene sleeves to patch up seawall gaps.

The port estimates almost $717,000 in repair and replacement work, which is expected to start in December or January. It’s anticipated to take about 90 days to be done in time for the new dock to be delivered, the port said.

By Karen Robes Meeks