LONDON: The first phase of demolition work on San Pedro’s once iconic Ports O’ Call Village was given the go-ahead Thursday by port officials. Work is expected to begin in November, paving the way for the eventual redevelopment of the outdoor shopping attraction that was built in the 1960s and enjoyed decades of popularity before falling on hard times.
Specifically, Thursday’s motion approved by the Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners directs the Harbor Department to demolish 92 mostly vacant marina slips at Berths 80-83 and tear down the building at 950 Sampson Way that provides utility service to the existing marina. Redevelopment plans call for retail, dining, entertainment and other attractions under the banner of the San Pedro Public Market. The demolition, which includes removal of deteriorating floating docks, is important for the construction of the promenade that will provide a walkway along the water. The work also is needed to make way for the creation of a town square at Sixth Street and Harbor Boulevard.
Only four slips remain occupied in what was called the San Pedro Marina, which was taken over by the port earlier this year. Inside the port, 3,721 boat slips remain. A $150 million proposal to make over the 30-acre Ports O’ Call by the LA Waterfront Alliance was approved by the Board of Harbor Commissioners in May. Eventually, all of the buildings are expected to be demolished. The popular San Pedro Fish Market will remain in its current space until a new structure can be built for the restaurant. Other tenants also could remain in the new development.
