Manhattan Beach: New Beach Access Mat To Extend Shoreline Access

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — Fans of Manhattan Beach’s “Pathway to the Sea” at 42nd Street will soon be able to get even closer to the water without touching the sand, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn announced today [Thursday, Feb. 11]. On Wednesday, Feb. 17, the LA County Department of Beaches and Harbors will unroll a new access mat to extend the concrete path.

“Our beaches belong to everyone, and we are working to make them accessible to everyone—including people with mobility challenges,” said Supervisor Hahn, who represents Manhattan Beach. “The Mobi-Mat we are installing at Manhattan Beach is designed to make it easier for people with wheelchairs or parents with strollers to get across the sand and enjoy the beach.”

Made of a fine nylon mesh, the access mat is designed to provide a more stable surface to people who may need assistance traversing the sand. Once installed, the mat will extend 60 feet from the circular end of the existing pathway and end in a “T” shape closer to the water’s edge.

Semi-permanent mats are part of the County’s efforts to ensure everyone can visit LA County’s iconic beaches. The Manhattan Beach mat will be the first one installed this year, but the sixth overall, including a seasonal mat at Zuma Beach. Beach wheelchairs remain available along the coast.

The installation will begin at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 17 at the 42nd Street “Pathway to the Sea," below the ADA ramp from the El Porto parking lot. The address is 4119 The Strand. Any raking or grading work will occur before 8 a.m.