The major redevelopment of Harbor Island West Marina has officially begun in San Diego, a $70‑million project aimed at modernizing nautical infrastructure and expanding public access along the waterfront. The groundbreaking ceremony – attended by representatives of the Port of San Diego, the development team, and the partners involved – marked the start of an intervention that will profoundly redesign one of the bay’s most iconic areas.
Eric Leslie, CEO of Beauchamp Leslie Development & Management, described the moment as “an exciting step in the ongoing transformation of San Diego Bay,” adding that the shared goal with community partners is to create “a premier waterfront destination that will allow boaters and the public to experience the bay with improved access and more comfortable, modern services.” The company has managed the marina since 1981 and is now carrying out the redevelopment under a new 50‑year lease agreement, underscoring its long‑term commitment.
San Diego bay: project details
The project covers 3.8 acres of land and 22 acres of water and includes a complete redesign of the marina, with new services and public spaces. Once completed, the facility will offer 623 slips for vessels ranging from 20 to 140 feet, along with a dedicated boater lounge, a fitness center, a pool, a spa, a public waterfront promenade, and a panoramic viewing deck accessible to all. Approximately 16,000 square feet of commercial space is also planned to enhance the waterfront experience.
Michael Zucchet, vice chair of the Board of Port Commissioners, highlighted Harbor Island’s symbolic role, calling it “an iconic part of the San Diego waterfront.” He added that this redevelopment will help ensure the marina continues to serve boaters, visitors, and the local community for years to come. Zucchet emphasized that the project demonstrates how economic growth and environmental stewardship can move forward together, modernizing waterfront infrastructure in a way that supports sustainability, recreation, and the long‑term health of the bay.
Work on the water has been entrusted to Bellingham Marine, which will handle the new dock systems, service upgrades, and improvements to nautical infrastructure. Land‑based construction is led by Pacific Building Group, responsible for the lounge, fitness center, viewing deck, and promenade. Architectural and urban planning work is overseen by AO. The entire redevelopment will be carried out in phases to keep the marina operational and ensure access for boaters throughout the construction period.
