To: City Council of Redondo Beach
From: Mark Hansen
Date: October 15, 2024
Re: DESIGN OF THE SEASIDE LAGOON REHABILITATION PROJECT, N.1.
During the Harbor Amenities process, some suggested Aquatic Features included:
"The pool can also support coastal-dependent activities such as swim lessons for future watercraft uses, paddlecraft lessons, scuba-diving lessons, and for radiocontrolled model sailboats. It is recommended that year-round heating be required for the pool. Additional waterpark amenities, like splash pads, can be incorporated within the lagoon upgrades. Surf or wave pools are also sought-after by the public; however, space requirements may restrict this amenity’s feasibility." p132 The Lagoon is located on State Tidelands and the City has an obligation to prioritize coastal-dependent uses. These amenities would all help transition users into enjoyment of the actual coast.
When promoting the Community Workshop and the Pop-Up events, I provided the below two-sided flyer, highlighting these potential features. Specifically note:
Standing Wave Pool for Surf Training. The beach cities do not have dependable year-round surf. Surfers in wet suits would use this amenity year-round. There would be a spectator value.
Interestingly, attendees seemed less than enthused about discussions of sand area vs. grass area, building architecture, and ‘rentable and configurable’ spaces.
They were more enthused about recreational features that their families could enjoy.
I recommend that we endeavor to give fair consideration to these potential features, including by Staff researching the available equipment and reaching out to the various surf clubs in our area for their expertise and level of interest.
Here is one interesting example of a deep-water stationary surf wave:
https://epic.surf
Seaside Lagoon Revitalization
Community Workshop
2nd Floor of Main Library, 303 N. PCH
December 6, WED / 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Design efforts are currently under way to identify
new amenities for year-round recreational use.
A lap pool had been suggested, however locations further inland would be much warmer than on the coast under the marine layer:
- Aviation Park has been identified as a good location for a lap pool. - Manhattan Beach has authorized funds for Begg Pool upgrades. - El Segundo is doing a comprehensive study of their aging pool. - Beach Cities Health District plans to add a pool to their facilities.
Inflatable buoys in the lagoon can support lap swimming.
Other amenities that have been suggested:
Standing Wave Pool for Surf Training. The beach cities do not have dependable year-round surf. Surfers in wet suits would use this amenity year-round. There would be a spectator value.
Small Wave Area for kids. These can generate a range of wave sizes and prepare kids for future enjoyment of the beach.
Scuba Training Area. During high surge and surf days, training could still be accomplished. Wet suits allow for year-round use.
Radio Control Model Sailboats. There is an active fleet in the harbor. This could also interest the public in taking sailing lessons.
The Lagoon is located on State Tidelands and the City has an obligation to prioritize coastal-dependent uses. These amenities would all help transition users into enjoyment of the actual coast.