Redondo Beach boat launch could mean teardown of restaurant
by Garth Meyer
The Redondo Beach city council’s 5-0 vote Aug. 20 to choose a contractor to design a long-sought boat launch in King Harbor may require at least a partial teardown of the former Samba building, now Riviera Mexican Cantina.
First, studies are to be conducted, regarding traffic, circulation, parking and demand for the ramp.
The Cantina, which opened in May, is signed to a short-term lease, its owners aware of the possibility that the boat ramp project could mean elimination of the city-owned building.
Three years remain on the lease.
Next steps for the city and contractor Moffat & Nichol is to conduct the studies, design the launch, hold public hearings, get Coastal Commission approval, seek grant funding and eventually building permits.
“Throughout the design process, we’ll attempt to keep the (former Samba) building as-is, if possible,” said Greg Kapovich, Redondo Beach waterfront and economic development director. “However, we just don’t know until the studies are completed.”
The boat launch would require 30 parking spots per boat lane, some spots 55 feet long to account for trailers. The city’s public amenities plan, approved in 2022, suggests two lanes, with 60 spots, 13 at the 55-foot length.
The turning-circle at the top of the launch is required to be at least 48 feet in diameter.ER