Major project in store for Kings Beach, public comment sought

Plans for an upgrade to the recreational facilities at Kings Beach State Recreation Area were unveiled during a public meeting last week. The project includes upgrades to the playground, restrooms, picnic areas, boat ramp and parking area, a relocation of the pier and the addition of an event area and stage, all over the next 20 years.

The California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the California Tahoe Conservancy (Conservancy) held the meeting to get public feedback, and for those unable to attend the comment/feedback period is available online until February 15, 2017.

Elements of the Preferred Alternative Site Design include:

1. Expanded gathering areas and pedestrian improvements near the North Tahoe Event Center.
2. A non-motorized promenade, or shared-use pathway, above the beach, including lake view overlooks with interpretive features.
3. A multi-purpose lawn and event space for concerts, events, games, and picnics.
4. A relocated basketball court away from the lake to allow more picnic space along the lake edge, and an interpretive nature play area with Tahoe-themed elements and structures.
5. More efficient parking lots and reducing the number of parking spaces by about 12%, will provide more space for recreation activities.
6. Human-powered watercraft improvements, including new access points and on-site storage for kayaks and paddleboards.
7. A multi-use pier to increase access for beach users and provide a universally-accessible landing for motorized and human-powered watercraft.

Other elements include expanded restrooms, space for a potential ice skating rink, interpretive features, natural landscaping, and a group picnic pavilion

The state recreation area is located along the north shore of Lake Tahoe within the community of Kings Beach. It encompasses about 14 acres and provides public access to more than 1,000 feet of the Lake Tahoe shoreline. This popular Northern California destination is home to many special events, such as music festivals, paddlecraft competitions and Fourth of July celebrations.

Detailed information on the meeting and the proposed enhancements, including detailed interactive maps of potential elements of the general plan, online and downloadable surveys, and additional information about how to stay involved in the process can be found at www.parks.ca.gov/plankbsra.