Coastal Commission challenges Carlsbad beach stairway repairs

The California Coastal Commission is reviewing a project to repair a stairway leading to South Carlsbad State Beach. This 60-foot concrete stairway, located in the Terramar neighborhood, is at risk of collapsing due to wave erosion. Although it sits on private property, it serves as the only public access to a small beach that families and surfers enjoy. The Carlsbad Planning Commission approved the repair project in December 2024. However, two members of the Coastal Commission raised concerns about the plan. They argue that it includes seawall construction and that there are less harmful options available for the environment. At a recent meeting in Santa Cruz, the commission found that there was a significant issue with the project. They decided to schedule a hearing, although no date has been set yet. Karl Schwing, a district director for San Diego County, stated that the plan did not consider possible solutions that would protect the stairway without harmful additions. Carlsbad's Senior Planner, Shannon Harker, defended the project in a letter, saying it aligns with the city's local coastal plan. She claimed the work would enhance public safety and access to the beach, which is an important recreational area. The project includes repairs to the stairway's surfaces and filling an eroded cave below it with a special concrete that matches the surrounding area. Any sand displaced during the work will be placed back on the beach. The repairs are expected to take three to five months to complete, and the property owner will cover all costs.