by Patricia Shallert
Starting on May 13th, 2024, the City of Ventura has proactively taken action to address the bi-annual sand removal on Pierpont Beach. Jose Drizzo, the Public Works Supervisor overseeing the project, explained “this ongoing project serves to replenish eroded areas, redistribute excess sand, and promote dune restoration practices, which play a vital role in stabilizing the ecosystem and reducing sand migration.”
The city also employs beach grooming techniques to manage the accumulation of sand in specific areas, particularly the lanes and end of the alleyways. Ventura holds community input in high regard and consistently engages with residents to explore effective and environmentally friendly methods for tackling sand removal on Pierpont Beach.
In 2011, after a lengthy legal dispute, an agreement was reached between the city and homeowners in the Pierpont neighborhood concerning the maintenance of the beach and sand. According to the settlement, bulldozers and trucks remove sand twice a year in front of participating households, with the homeowners sharing the associated costs.
As per the agreed terms, the city clears a stretch of the beach extending from San Pedro St. to Weymouth Ln. This process involves collecting the excess sand and transporting it to a designated facility on Stanley Ave., where it is appropriately stored and managed.
By implementing this meticulous approach, the City of Ventura ensures that Pierpont Beach remains easily accessible and safe for visitors while effectively managing the accumulation of sand. The city’s unwavering dedication to efficient sand removal and storage practices is vital in sustaining the beach’s beauty and functionality.
The beach work was anticipated to be completed by Friday, May 17th and any residual sand on the lanes and end of the streets will be removed by Tuesday, May 21st.
