The latest Des Moines newsletter says.
"Plans are still underway to renovate the boat launch and parking lot at Redondo. The construction bids received were higher than expected and the city is working hard to identify new ways to reduce cost. We will readvertise for bids so that construction can still occur this year.Just in case,project managers have a back-up plan for postponing the renovation untill 2004.
State regulations designed to protect surf smelt and sand lance,which are food sources for salmon,require that all in-water construction be completed by September 30th. This means that construction on the ramp,floats, and pilings must occur during summer months.Those times when the launch and parking lot are used most.Current plans call for the closure of the boat ramp and parking lot on September 2nd immediately following the labor day weekend. After that the ramp and the parking lot will be closed for most of the remainder of 2003.While this temporary closure will create inconveniences for redondo's residents,businesses, and visitors,the renovation will produce a boating facility that is safer and more attractive.The state is providing 61 percent of the funds for this project."

DB15, thx for the info. I've been wondering whats been going on relating the upgrade. Can't wait. Been very fustrated when loading. I've notice some people do not have the respect for others when loading. There's really no reason for others to tie up and run to grab their vehicles when you plainly see others respectivly beaching or dropping others off on shore or dock to retrive their vehicles. The other gets me, during high tide, when I see boats tide up on rap side or dropping people off on rap side and they do not think to utilize the other side. No brainer there. Hopefully as the season goes on and others see us veterns in action and respecting others, that the rookies or the ones that just don't think will follow as we do.

Erndog

Thanks for the update Duro!

Sept. 2nd is OK with me. Shortly after that I am chasing silvers in the Green so I won't miss anything at Redondo.

No problem guys if I here anything else from the city I will post it here. I would sure like to see the plans on what they are going to do to fix some of the problems with that ramp. I have heard rumors that they may put in a floating breakwater that would be a plus. I havent used that ramp in years because it sucks so bad.And I only live a mile from it. But I bet they really jack up the launching fee once the improvments are done.