Tucked in Marin County’s San Rafael Bay located north of San Francisco, lies Safe Harbor Loch Lomond Marina. One of the largest marinas in the North Bay with over 500 slips up to 62’ long, is currently undergoing a cosmetic and structural upgrade that will last for many years to come.
Sometimes marinas are in good structural order and rehabilitation of decking and fendering creates a new look that enhances the cosmetics of the marina. The existing layout worked well, and the existing dock framework was in good working order, so Bellingham Marine is currently installing modern floats, new tri-frames with poly covers, and new composite decking throughout, utilizing the existing framework for a modern, upgraded look with lower maintenance.
The renovation began in 2022, and about 90% of the marina remains open to slip holders and visitors during the project. Bellingham Marine is working closely with the marina managers to coordinate the transition of construction from dock to dock, with Loch Lomond management moving vessels in and out of slips as BMI completes renovations at each dock. Bellingham Marine is well-versed in working with marina operators to minimize disruption by creating phased project plans to keep a minimum number of slips available to tenants and visitors.
As with all renovation projects, a few areas requiring additional attention were uncovered as the work progressed. As a licensed general and electrical contractor, Bellingham Marine is skilled in all aspects of marina construction and has the experience and manpower to handle unplanned repairs as they arise during the course of a project. As the work progressed, BMI completed additional electrical and mechanical repairs and upgrades, as well as replacement of damaged boards, stringers, cleats, and hardware.
Whereas new construction tends to move a lot more quickly, with demolition and removal of existing infrastructure and sub assembled components that were manufactured offsite brought in for installation, rehabilitation requires constant active time onsite and is completed dock-by-dock, requiring a longer crew presence. Bellingham Marine is about halfway through the marina renovation and is currently onsite with completion expected later this year.
