Ocean Harbor House Seawall

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The Ocean Harbor House was concerned over coastal erosion to their property. A seawall was erected to aid in prevent waves from impacting the structures. This page describes the process that occurred.

Structure before seawall from CSUMB Review
Construction of temporary rock seawall from CSUMB Review
Structure after seawall from California Coastal Records Project

Background

The Ocean Harbor House is comprised of 172 condominiums and located on Del Monte Beach in Monterey,CA. It was initially constructed in the 1960's and has had various additions through the years. Because the structure was built in close vicinity to the ocean, concerns over coastal erosion, wave impact, storm surge, and property damage accumulated through the years. This led the associated homeowners to investigate protection solutions. The homeowners applied to both the California Coastal Commission and City of Monterey for a permit to construct a 585 foot seawall.[1]

Environmental Impact Report

Acting as the lead agency, the Monterey Planning Division of the City of Monterey, created an environmental impact report. It was reported that the proposed seawall would generate a peninsula effect around the structure. The sandy beach area surrounding the structure would erode leaving the structure extending out towards the ocean. This was deemed aesthetically displeasing resulting in a loss of visual character. In addition the beach would no longer be continuous preventing beach goers from full access therefore reducing recreational function and use. Despite these findings, the EIR did not find an alternative method of protection for the structure. To mitigate the loss of beach access, homeowners could allow access through their parking lot so patrons could visit the beach on either side of the structure. The City of Monterey subsequently granted a permit to the homeowners with the conditions of allowing public access through their property and creating the seawall to match the current scenery. [1]

California Coastal Commission Review

The homeowners sought approval from the California Coastal Commission after receiving the permit through the city.

Lawsuit

The homeowners of the Ocean Harbor House sued the California Coastal Commission over the fee imposed for the seawall installation.

Documents

State Clearinghouse All

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 Ocean Harbor House Homeowners Association v. California Coastal Commission

Links

Disclaimer

This page may contain students's work completed as part of assigned coursework. It may not be accurate. It does not necessarily reflect the opinion or policy of CSUMB, its staff, or students.