Architect retained to ask what residents want in harbor area

The International Boardwalk is one area of the city that officials hope to see an increase in sales tax revenue. Photo by Garth Meyer

by Garth Meyer

SWA Group, a Los Angeles landscape architecture firm, was hired to design a new public amenities plan for King Harbor by the city council at its Aug. 17 meeting.

They will study Seaside Lagoon, Moonstone Park and the International Boardwalk.

“Focusing on recreational amenities first,” said Redondo Beach Mayor Bill Brand.

Items to consider include a rebuilt sportfishing pier, commercial areas, a boat ramp location and a separate hand launch for kayaks and paddleboards.

“We see it as an opportunity to set the stage to allow the attraction of new business investment on the waterfront,” said Waterfront Development Director Stephen Proud,. 

SWA was chosen by the Harbor Commission. The budget is not to exceed $242,872. The firm will hold a series of public meetings, and have one year to complete the plan.

Gerdo Aquino, SWA co-CEO, told the city council his intention is to have the plan done in nine months. 

“Every step of the way, the community is giving input, we’re giving feedback and the look and feel back to them,” Aquino said. 

“This is to be the exact opposite of the way it’s been done over the past 14 years,” said Mayor Brand. “SWA is gonna come up with what the residents want to see first, not just quote-unquote listening. To implement what the people say.” ER

 

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