Marina repairs, state appropriation and tide-related flooding updates discussed at Dunedin workshop

City staff briefed the commission July 1 on marina operations, stormwater tidal-valve installations and planned repairs to bulkheads and gabion structures, reporting that the marina peninsula is open to operations while ramp access and certain construction remain restricted.

City Manager Jennifer (last name not specified) said, “The marina is open, and it's open to operations. Yes. The peninsula is open,” and explained that the ramp will remain closed during work: “The marine advisory committee… want the ramp to remain closed.” She described ongoing construction planning for the east bulkhead wall and repairs to the north bulkhead, noting bids came in under the original budget and staff hopes to issue notices to proceed and start work in August.

Jennifer confirmed state funding: “The governor signed the budget yesterday, and our 1,500,000.0 for the marina is included in the state budget.” She also said gabion repair was included in the state appropriation. Staff noted that any FEMA reimbursements for storm damage will offset state funding when FEMA determines eligible costs.

On marina operations, staff said slip rental agreements are being processed daily and that electric pedestals ordered for dock power were scheduled to ship July 17 with an approximate two-week installation window. “The ship date is July 17 of the pedestals, and the install is 2 weeks,” a staff member said. Staff also advised they will not reuse pedestals that were previously exposed to saltwater because of corrosion and liability concerns.

Separately, staff described sunny-day and high-tide flooding at Douglas Avenue and Baywood Shores where tidal valves and a small berm have been installed or are under design. Jennifer said tidal valves were placed and “we had a cruise on-site this morning to have a look at what we need to order… additional tidal valves,” and that some areas will not drain during high tides until the tide recedes. North Douglas berm and pedestal electrical work are in design and permitting, and staff are working directly with neighborhood representatives.

Commissioners asked about bid timing and schedule; staff reported east- and north-bulkhead work is scheduled to bid and begin this summer and emphasized the marina work will be coordinated with ongoing causeway and ferry work with Clearwater. No formal action was taken; staff were directed to continue permitting, procurement and coordination and to return with contract documents and schedules for formal commission action.