City of Long Beach Begins Major Improvements at Davies Boat Launch Facility

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PRESS RELEASE

Above: The Davies Boat Ramp was constructed in 1965 and is one of five public launch ramps in Long Beach.

Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach Department of Public Works has begun a major renovation of the Davies Boat Launch Ramp, marking a significant investment in one of the region's most heavily used public coastal access points. The project will modernize the 60-year-old facility and enhance safety, accessibility and overall functionality for the thousands of residents and visitors who utilize it each year.

"Long Beach's waterfront belongs to everyone, and investments like this ensure our facilities remain accessible and ready to welcome all who utilize them," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "These upgrades strengthen a key regional access point to the water and help prepare our shoreline for the global attention and increased coastal use during the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games."

Planned improvements include construction of a new launch ramp with defined launch lanes, renovation of the parking lot pavement, installation of a new electrical distribution system and upgraded lighting, and replacement of the restroom building. Additional enhancements include upgraded trash enclosures, a new boat washing station, new fish cleaning station, as well as the addition of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.

"The Davies Boat Launch is an important public resource for Long Beach residents and regional visitors coming to enjoy our coastline," said Third District Councilwoman Kristina Duggan. "Improving this facility means protecting access to the waterfront for decades to come."

The Davies Boat Launch Ramp facilities and parking lot closed Monday, April 27, 2026. During the closure, the boat launch ramp, restroom and parking lot will not be accessible. Boaters are encouraged to plan accordingly and make alternative arrangements to utilize Long Beach's other launch ramp locations. 

Originally constructed in 1965, the Davies Boat Launch Ramp is one of five public launch ramps in Long Beach managed by the Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine, and one of the most utilized in the region, serving nearly 28,000 boaters in 2025. As a public gateway to the waterfront, the facility plays an essential role in supporting equitable access to the coast.

The project is supported by $8.8 million in funding from a combination of sources, including Tidelands and Marina funds and California Department of Parks and Recreation, Division of Boating and Waterways. Construction for the project is expected to be completed with the ramp and facilities set to reopen by winter in early 2027.

"The Department of Public Works is committed to maintaining safe, accessible public spaces for residents and visitors alike," said Public Works Director Joshua Hickman. "Revitalizing the high-use launch ramp, parking, and restrooms meets modern quality standards and supports continued enjoyment of the waterfront."

For more information and to stay up to date on project progress, visit lbcity.info/dblaunch.

About the City of Long Beach

Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture, and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, the award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. For more information about the Department of Public Works visit longbeach.gov/pw and follow @lbpublicworks on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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