The Shelter Island boat launch is currently operating with one lane open during a major improvement project to provide better access for boaters. After the Labor Day weekend (Sept. 1-4), it will be completely closed from Sept. 5 through the completion of construction, currently anticipated for next March.
One of the busiest boat launches in California, with an estimated 50,000 launches annually, the approximately $9.5 million improvement project was designed with extensive public outreach. It has received funding from the California Department of Boating and Waterways and the Wildlife Conservation Board.
The closure will allow the contractor to continue jetty removal operations to make room for the new concrete breakwater and walkway. Alternate boat launch facilities are available.
The improvement project has been underway since May 30. Since then, the contractor has begun the removal of the west jetty and installation of a cofferdam – a watertight enclosure that is pumped dry to permit construction of the new concrete ramp.
All new piles and concrete wall panels for the project are currently in fabrication off-site. When complete, the new and improved boat launch will be easier to navigate and include these improvements:
• An enlarged maneuvering area in the basin;
• Longer boarding floats;
• Public walking platforms with viewing areas;
• New signage and lighting; and • Docks, public walkways and restrooms that are up to current ADA standards.
Constructed in the mid-1950s with a single-lane concrete launch ramp, Shelter Island boat launch’s last major improvement was completed in the mid-1970s when the existing 10-lane boat launching ramp was constructed. The facility is used by recreational boaters from the general public, including small yachts, inboard and out-board motorboats, private fishing boats, fishing tournament boats and amphibious tour buses.
“This project recognizes that the boat launch needs to be enlarged, made more safe and more navigable and maneuverable making it easier for boats to move around within the basin once they’re in the water,” said Brianne Page, marketing and public relations representative for the Port District. 
“It will increase the length of the boarding floats. We’ll be installing a public walking platform with viewing areas. We’ll also be installing more signage and better lighting, as well as bring the restrooms up to current ADA standards.”
A list of alternate launch ramps in San Diego Bay and adjacent areas:
• San Diego Bay – Kayak Launch Ramp, 2869 Historic Decatur Road;
• Mission Bay – Dana Landing, 2580 Ingraham St.;
• Mission Bay – South Shores, S. Shores Park Drive;
• Mission Bay – Ski Beach Boat Launch Ramp, Ingraham Street and Vacation Road;
• Mission Bay – Santa Clara Point, 1001 Santa Clara Place.
• Mission Bay – De Anza Cove Boat Launch, E. Mission Bay Drive;
• San Diego Bay – MCRD Boat House (military only), 131 Neville Road;
• Coronado – Coronado Boat Launch, Glorietta Bay, 1975 Strand Way;
• National City – Pepper Park, Tidelands Avenue;
• Chula Vista – Chula Vista Boat Launch Marina, Marina Way, Chula Vista;
• Oceanside – Oceanside Harbor Boat Launch, 1380 N. Pacific St., Oceanside.