Seal Beach council directs staff to design ADA ramp improvements at Tenth Street beach lot

The Seal Beach City Council voted Sept. 8 to direct staff to pursue conceptual design for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements focused on the Tenth Street beach parking lot. Associate Engineer Spitz presented seven conceptual options developed with consultant David Evans & Associates; staff recommended "Option 1b," a switchback ramp using the slope between the Tenth Street parking lot and Eisenhower Park. Spitz told the council the concepts are at roughly 10% design and that costs are preliminary; he said the Tenth Street option generally costs less than a similar Eighth Street design because it involves less elevation change. He explained the work would include not only ramps but wayfinding signage and would be coordinated with a separate future parking-lot paving project to avoid rework. Council members emphasized that improved access would benefit wheelchair users, people with mobility aids and families with strollers. Councilmember Kalmick asked about alternatives such as vertical lifts and e‑bike use; staff said lifts remain an option but the current direction is to proceed with the switchback ramp concept to balance accessibility, aesthetics and cost. The council approved staff's recommendation unanimously and directed staff to move into design for the ADA improvements and concurrent paving work, then return with cost estimates and design milestones. Spitz said final design will further refine costs, and the city will pursue outside funding if available.