NEWPORT BEACH – Newport Beach officials have paused a new building for junior lifeguards due to an issue with the way concrete was poured for the walls and are now anticipating completing the project by early next year.
The grand opening of the Junior Lifeguard Building near the base of Balboa Pier was expected this Memorial Day weekend, but city inspectors noticed a problem with the concrete walls, city spokesman John Pope said.
Because the beaches are so busy during the summer, city officials decided to pause construction this summer and resume work after Labor Day, Pope said. In the meantime, city officials will work with the contractor on knocking down the flawed walls and reconstructing them.
“Although this delay is regrettable, it is necessary to build an excellent facility that will serve our community for decades,” Mayor Noah Blom said. “We are working with our contractor and fully expect to resolve these issues, resume construction in the fall and celebrate the opening of a world- class facility next year.”
Graham Harvey, chairman of the Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Foundation, said it was “unfortunate” that the building won’t be opened in time for this year’s junior lifeguard season.
“However, we are thankful the city is taking measured steps to provide a quality facility for many generations to come,” Harvey said.
The 5,400-square-foot building is meant to replace a temporary trailer for the junior lifeguards. The $7.8 million project is being funded by federal grants of $5.2 million and $2 million in private donations.
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