Updated:  11.03.25

PROJECT STATUS

In May 2025, the project received funding allocation with the FY 2025-26 budget adoption to allow staff to begin preparation of the project specifications, construction documents, and bid documents preparation.   In August 2025, City Council authorized staff to submit a request for funding from the California Coastal Commission's Public Recreation Beach Impact Mitigation Fund, managed by SANDAG.   In October 2025 the request for funding from the California Coastal Commission Public Recreation Beach Impact Mitigation Fund, Managed by SANDAG, was approved.   In October 2025 the Structural Inspection was completed and is being reviewed.

BACKGROUND

The Swamis Beach Access, situated 800 feet south of West K St on South Coast Highway 101, is a multi-level timber and concrete stairway which was rebuilt in the winter of 1990. The access consists of four main segments that connect via stairs to the lower section at the beach.

A structural inspection of the Swamis Beach Access stairway was performed in June 2018 and October 2025.  The steel connections and timber materials were examined as well as the concrete stairway and support structure.  The Beach Staircase Access Refurbishment Project at Swamis will refurbish and replace components that were identified in the structural inspection. Construction work will be scheduled in advance to minimize impacts to beach access.

This project supports the city’s Strategic Plan Vision for Evolving & Preserving Community Character by maintaining beach access and the character of a welcoming unique beach city that result in a high-quality life.