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Residents urge swift action on deteriorating Coos Bay boardwalk and derelict vessels
Summary
A public commenter called the boardwalk and docks "deplorable," urged a field inspection with a marine contractor and recommended RFPs, updated moorage agreements and new funding avenues; commissioners and staff agreed the area needs attention and mentioned plans for a master plan update and possible funding efforts.
A long public comment at the May 15 Parks Commission meeting urged the city to inspect and plan repairs for the downtown boardwalk and docks, citing failing concrete, deteriorating collars around support posts, pigeon guano, derelict vessels and safety concerns.
Tom (resident) told commissioners that a marine contractor inspected the boardwalk and warned the structure could be "gone" in about 10 years without proper maintenance. He asked the commission to conduct a field trip so a marine professional could point out problem areas, and recommended the city issue a request for proposals for boardwalk and dock work and revise moorage agreements to better protect city assets. Tom said there are derelict boats that have not been removed despite a February 2025 notice and urged the city to simplify donation and fundraising options.
Commissioners and staff responded that they have discussed updating a master plan for the waterfront and agreed the boardwalk is a community asset that needs preservation. Commissioner Carmen Matthews said the commission has "discussed many times doing an updated master plan for the area that looks at expansion." Several commissioners noted funding will be difficult and that work would be costly: one commissioner said, "It's gonna cost millions of dollars in 5 to 10 years for that asset." The commission indicated willingness to walk the site and to explore funding and sponsorship options, and staff noted the State Marine Board will be involved with any marine-structure review.
Why it matters: The boardwalk and docks are a public-facing, revenue- and tourism-related asset for Coos Bay. Commissioners described the area as the city's "front porch" and said visible deterioration and derelict vessels may depress economic activity and reflect poorly on the city.
Outcome and next steps: There was no formal vote. Commissioners agreed to continue conversations, consider a field inspection with a marine contractor, incorporate the boardwalk in future master-planning work, and explore funding sources and potential RFPs or revisions to moorage agreements. Staff and commissioners encouraged site visits by commissioners and expressed a desire to pursue grants and sponsorships.
