"The Refurbishing of King Harbor"

A new arch has gone up across Catalina Avenue, loudly broadcasting entry to King Harbor. An abstract sculpture fountain has been built at the gateway to the Redondo Beach marina, another encouraging sign that the destination is on the rebound. Shown above is the old King Harbor arch.

The remodeled entryway is just the start of the refurbishing soon to move forward on the city's waterfront. The owners of the hip Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach are building a Redondo Beach branch, and the leaseholder of many of the restaurants on the pier is planning to spend as much as $2 million to refurbish the eateries. There is also a proposal for a $100-million project that will include restaurants, stores and an amphitheater.

Even a new L.A. County Harbor Patrol building is planned, replacing the temporary one that has been in use for about 20 years.

King Harbor "is one of the jewels of our city but in my mind a jewel that needs some polishing," Mayor Mike Ginn said.