Project Info
The design of Swamis Beach Access was site-specific to meet individual potentials and constraints. The design of the stairways required descending the natural bluff for a vertical drop of more than 75-feet. The highly unstable bluff had significant subsurface water seepage and was eroding at over two-inches per year. Block failures were occurring that threatened the existing stairway. In addition, the base of the bluff was subject to continual wave score and susceptible to significant failure during high seas and high-tide storm events.
Schmidt Design Group solution included a combination of on-grade concrete walkways and landings at the beach that were connected between the levels with a wooden stairway system. Services included community facilitation, design, permit processing (including acquisition of a coastal development permit from the California Coastal Commission), construction drawings, and construction administration. Since the project was completed in 1991, despite severe weather and coastal forces, the beach access and bluff stabilization project has performed without failure or interruption. Swamis Beach Access continues to provide safe access to the beach for literally thousands of people each day.
Awards
- Merit Award, San Diego Landmark Landscape Award, American Society of Landscape Architects, San Diego Chapter
- Orchid Award, Environmental Solution, Orchids and Onion Public Awareness Program
- Certificate of Appreciation, City of Encinitas