SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – When Suntex Marinas Investor, LLC purchased the Tahoe Keys Marina at the end of 2021, big changes were in store for the aging resort. With over 100 marinas in its national portfolio, Suntex knows how to create a place that is efficient and, in Lake Tahoe’s case, environmentally conscious of the area.
The company’s first task was to replace the 305 boat slips that were dilapidated, tilted, breaking up, and releasing styrofoam and other pollutants into the lake. What will be complete by the middle of May are ADA-compliant bridges and docks made of state-of-the-art HDPE (high-density polyethylene) that is environmentally friendly and won’t break apart in the water.
Robert Haen and Haen Constructors of South Lake Tahoe were hired to replace the boat slips, and with the mild winter, they’ve been able to get a lot of work done. There are a few things to do once the grading season opens on May 1, and then they’ll be in service.
There will be transformers on the docks to supply electricity with 50-amp outlets at the slips for an expected increase in e-boats, fire suppression throughout, and domestic water available at each slip.
The new ADA bridges will connect people from the parking lot level to the ramps and slips.
This project was the first of a series of improvements that are coming to the Marina. There are no permits requested or issued yet, nor will any buildings be demolished for the time being. On Wednesday, the project was presented to the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) Regional Planning Committee, and later this spring, it is expected to go before the TRPA Governing Board. This summer, the project is expected to go before the South Lake Tahoe Planning Commission with permit plans and planning documents expected by fall. The timeline presented at Wednesday’s meeting estimates asbestos abatement and demolition to start this fall, along with advance utility work. The foundations should be completed by May 2027, and a targeted opening date of Spring 2029.
The following is planned for the Tahoe Keys Marina:
- Four places for dining – fine dining, a second restaurant, a coffee shop, and a hamburger spot – a true dock-and-dine experience
- The parking lot in front of the old Fresh Ketch will be eliminated, and in its place, a public plaza
- A promenade
- More retail
- Gathering spots
- Paid parking and valet parking with 268 parking spots, compared to the current 160 usable spots
- Relocation of the boat ramp to the south end of the property
- Offices and some employee housing
- Restrooms for those using the Cove East trail
“Our goal is a welcoming experience,” said Eric Metz of Suntex last spring. “This is a four-season opportunity.”
