AVALON — The City of Avalon is moving forward with key harbor improvements following unanimous City Council approval of new grant funding from the California Department of Parks and Recreation’s Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW).
During its March 3 meeting, the council accepted a $300,000 grant through the Boating Infrastructure Grant Program to support the replacement of the aging end float at the Green Pleasure Pier. The item was approved as part of the Consent Calendar, meaning it was adopted without discussion alongside other routine agenda items.
According to a staff report prepared by Harbormaster Kevin Schmidt and Administrative Analyst Aliana Gonzales, the project will focus on replacing a deteriorating, city-owned harbor end float that has been in service for approximately 30 years. The existing structure, made of steel and wood, will be replaced with a new float measuring roughly 60’ by 20’. Final construction materials will be determined during the engineering and permitting phase, with the goal of exceeding a 20-year service life.
In addition to replacing the float itself, the project will address accessibility improvements at the pier. Two existing aluminum gangways that do not meet current ADA standards will be replaced with a single 80-foot ADA-compliant gangway, improving access for all visitors and boaters using the facility.
City officials submitted the grant application in July 2024 and were notified in late February 2026 that the project had been recommended for funding. The total project cost is estimated at $500,000, with the grant covering $300,000 in federal funds. The remaining balance will be funded through a combination of local matching funds of at least $100,000, along with an additional $100,000 contribution from the City to cover ineligible expenses.
The Green Pleasure Pier is one of Avalon Harbor’s most recognizable and heavily used waterfront assets, serving as a key access point for recreational boaters, visiting vessels, and waterfront activity. Replacing the aging float is expected to improve safety, reliability, and overall functionality within the harbor.
In addition to the float replacement project, the City Council also approved another grant-funded improvement aimed at upgrading Avalon Harbor’s patrol capabilities. Acting under the same Consent Calendar, the council authorized the Harbormaster to purchase two new Yamaha outboard engines and associated equipment using funds provided through DBW.
The grant allocates approximately $55,663 for the purchase and installation of the engines, with the total project cost estimated at $55,296, including shipping. The new Yamaha 150XSA outboards will replace two high-hour engines currently used on the Harbor Department’s patrol boats.
According to Schmidt’s report, one of the existing engines requires major repairs, while the second is nearing the end of its service life. Replacing both engines is expected to improve reliability and operational efficiency for harbor patrol operations, which play a critical role in maintaining safety and managing vessel traffic within Avalon Harbor.
Procurement and installation of the new equipment will involve multiple vendors. The outboard engines will be sourced from West Coast Marine Services, lower unit gear assemblies will be provided by RJ Nautical, and installation will be completed by Avalon Boat Stand.
Together, the two projects reflect Avalon’s ongoing efforts to invest in its harbor infrastructure while leveraging state and federal funding opportunities. By combining grant resources with local funding, the City is able to address aging facilities and equipment while maintaining a high level of service for residents, visitors, and the boating community.
As Avalon Harbor continues to serve as one of Southern California’s most iconic boating destinations, improvements like the Green Pleasure Pier float replacement and patrol boat upgrades are expected to support long-term functionality, accessibility, and safety across the waterfront.
