CBS12 News Team

Phase 1 of Riviera Beach Marina project moving forward

RIVIERA BEACH, Fla. -- Small signs of hope today in a $15 million improvement project at the Riviera Beach Marina. The company that wants to install brand new docks, is in town. Considering the lack of progress since the plan was approved two years ago, this visit is actually good news.
Richard Long has run his charter boat out of Riviera Beach Marina for the last four years, and for the most part he says it's been a good spot.
But when the redevelopment project removed the original docks he and dozens of others used, things became tough. Now, instead of being docked right up front near the tiki bar and restaurant, they're much further out.
"It has, in a sense, annhilated my business," Long said.
He says being near the restaurant brought him lots of walk-up business, something he doesn't have as much of any more. Long says he is frustrated the project seems to be at a standstill.
"I'd just like to see some construction out there. Someone measuring," said Long.
The director of the marina says he knows the process has been frustrating and it's taken even longer than what he's expected.
Ed Legue says much of 2011 was spent in the permitting and approval process. But now they have the final rendition and are ready to move forward with phase one, which includes rebuilding the marina docks, bulkhead, and Bicenntenial Park.
"The upside is the city and council has said let's keep half of it open. We're going through more expenses and problems by doing half at a time," said Legue.
He says they're trying to be as accommodating as possible. The original dock promenade will be back all new, likely in a few months.
"I'm thrilled with how the marina will look when we're done," said Legue.
In the meantime, he says he hopes charter's like Long's will hang in there.
Officials say they hope to have phase one of the project complete by the end of the year. It will cost about $15 million funded through grants.

Tuesday, May 1 2012, 02:34 PM EDT

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