THE HARBOR COLUMN:

I am pleased to see that the Marina Park project is moving forward.

Unfortunately, not everyone will agree on everything that is being planned.

Area residents expressed concerned at the last City Council meeting that their bay views will be obstructed if any of the Marina Park buildings are built over the 65-foot height limit. The architectural design shows the community center to have the highest peak at 39 feet, and the sailing center at approximately 48 feet.

Both of these buildings are designed to create a landmark in the area and give the buildings an artistic style that is missing in many newly built buildings of today’s design.

I have seen the proposed master plans and the views of the bay will be dramatically improved for the homes that are across Balboa Boulevard. Lowering the community center by 4 feet will not accomplish much for a view of the bay, as residents still will be looking from a two-story building at a two-story building.

Those buildings are situated in a small section in the proposed park, but the City Council did take the correct action by listening to the concerns of residents, and sending the plans back to the architect.

I just hope the overall aesthetic value can be recaptured in the redesigned buildings.

You can see the Marina Park master plan on Newport Beach’s website at www.city.newport-beach.ca.us/marinapark/ConceptPlan.pdf.

Tip of the week: Tune in to my radio show tomorrow. I will have a special guest, Kris Ensley, LTJG who is the commanding officer of the United States Coast Cutter stationed in our harbor. You might remember that the 87-foot Marine Protector cutter the “Narwhal” replaced the cutter 82 footer Point Class cutter the “Point Divide.”

Kris will be discussing the role of the Coast Guard for recreational boaters, plus the boarding inspection procedures at sea. Additionally, Kris will explain when and how you should contact the Coast Guard for emergencies and non-emergency situations. If you are a boater then you will not want to miss this interview and hear from the CO of Newport Harbor’s Coast Guard Crew.

Safe Voyages.

MIKE WHITEHEAD is the Pilot’s boating columnist. Send marine-related thoughts and story suggestions to [email protected] or go to www.boathousetv.com.