CONTACT: Marguerite Elicone, melicone@portofsandiego.org 

The project was honored in the program’s Structures category, which includes new public structures or the preservation or rehabilitation of existing public structures including municipal buildings and parks.

Award criteria included:

• Planning, design, construction management techniques, and regulatory compliance;
• Degree to which the project enhanced a public facility/service;
• Community engagement and safety;
• Environmental protection/mitigation; and
• Adverse conditions encountered during construction.

“The Port of San Diego is honored to receive this award from the APWA San Diego-Imperial Counties Chapter,” said Chair Ann Moore, Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “This launch ramp is a very popular amenity on San Diego Bay and we are pleased that we could provide these upgrades so that it can be enjoyed by our residents and visitors for years to come.”

Originally constructed in the 1950s and believed to be the busiest boat launch in California with approximately 50,000 launches per year, the Shelter Island Boat Launch Facility underwent upgrades in 1976 and 2005. After extensive planning and public outreach, the Port broke ground on the latest renovation in May 2017. The project entailed completely demolishing and replacing the former ramp. It also enlarged the maneuvering area in the facility’s basin, added longer boarding floats, a public walking platform with viewing areas, and new signage and lighting. The new facility was completed and opened to the public in December 2018.

The total construction cost was approximately $9.6 million. The Port received a $6.1 million grant from California Department of Parks and Recreation, Division of Boating and Waterways, and a $3.5 million grant from the State of California Wildlife Conservation Board.

Delivered within budget, the new facility was constructed by R.E. Staite Engineering and designed by Triton Engineering, both local companies.

About APWA

The American Public Works Association (APWA) serves professionals in all aspects of public works—a fact that sets it apart from other organizations and makes it an effective voice of public works throughout North America. With a worldwide membership more than 30,000 strong, APWA includes not only personnel from local, county, state/province, and federal agencies, but also private sector personnel who supply products and services to those professionals. Membership in APWA is open to any individual, agency, or corporation with an interest in public works and infrastructure issues.

As a comprehensive public works resource, APWA continues in its rich tradition of making a difference both on an individual and professional level. APWA is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) organization that prides itself on its ability to provide varied educational and networking opportunities that help public works personnel grow in their professionalism and improve the quality of life in the communities they serve.

ABOUT THE PORT OF SAN DIEGO
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.

The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 22 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.

ABOUT PORT OF SAN DIEGO WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT
Port of San Diego Waterfront Development contributes to the continuous prosperity of the local economy.

From Real Estate to Aquaculture and Blue Tech, the Port invests in major redevelopment and community infrastructure, so businesses in our region have the opportunity to stay competitive in the global marketplace.