Sand for Dune Delayed but Not Aug. 1 Opening

Originally scheduled to be done this weekend, a restoration project that involves adding imported sand to the dune in Sand Dune Park has been delayed, though an Aug. 1 opening date remains in place.

"The person supplying the sand is on vacation and hasn't been able to be reached," said Ish Nedrano, project manager for the city's Public Works Department. "We thought the plans between the contractor and the supplier were solidified. We'll have a better understanding on Monday when everyone returns."

The Sand Dune Restoration Project is part of the City Council's decision in April to reopen the area to exercise and recreation, after neighbors' complaints of overuse prompted the city to shut it last August. The city is using imported sand in an effort to preserve a rare plant species that has been discovered growing on the dune's north side.

A best-case scenario, Nedrano said, would be a completion date of Thursday or Friday, as public notification of any street closures must be posted 72 hours in advance. If the contractor is unable to get the work done by the end of next week, he said, the city will postpone delivery of the sand for another two weeks.

Regardless, the dune is still scheduled to reopen Aug. 1 to those ages 12 and under, and on Aug. 2 under the new reservation system for those 13 and older.