The Ventura County Harbor Department and Channel Islands Harbor lessees continue to make meaningful progress on key projects that will shape the future of this waterfront destination for residents, visitors, and our boating community.

On February 2, 2026, German developer Robert Dahl will officially become the leaseholder for the Fisherman’s Wharf property, marking an important milestone for this iconic destination. Robert’s team is advancing plans for Karl’s Village, an exciting new family-oriented attraction scheduled to open in spring 2028.

The City of Oxnard has approved the demolition permit for the project, with demolition scheduled to begin later this year. Following demolition, site work will commence, and vertical construction is planned for 2027 and 2028. This project, which includes dining, retail, and family-friendly gathering spaces, is a significant investment in the Harbor and will create a fun, new experience for visitors and residents.

Harbor Public Infrastructure Projects

Public infrastructure improvements remain a top priority. The Harbor Department has issued a Request for Bids for Phase I of the Harbor Boulevard East Parking Lot Improvement Project, covering the parking lots from the Channel Islands Yacht Club to Barracuda Way. These are among the most heavily visited parking areas in the Harbor, and the project, which will occur this year, will enhance safety, accessibility, and overall visitor and resident experience. Phase II will extend improvements from Barracuda Way to the Marine Emporium Landing parking lot.

Dredging operations, led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, are now complete, with approximately 1.6 million cubic feet of sand removed to maintain safe navigation within the Harbor. The dredge operators will return in October 2026. This will mark the third straight year dredging operations will occur. Dredging typically occurs on a biannual basis within an October to March environmental window. In 2024, due to permitting, weather and operational issues, the amount of dredging desired by the Corps could not be completed. That is why dredging operations resumed in 2025. After this year’s 2026 cycle is complete, a biennial dredging schedule with resume.

Silverstrand and Hollywood Beach Cleanup

Last, but certainly not least, I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the Harbor Department’s maintenance team for their outstanding, ongoing efforts to clean Silver Strand and Hollywood Beaches following the December 2025 storms, which pushed significant debris from the Santa Clara River into our coastline. Their rapid response and hard work were critical in restoring these beaches for the community. If you were not aware, the Harbor Department provides maintenance to both beaches thanks to the support from the General Fund approved by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors.

We are excited about the year ahead and remain committed to investing in infrastructure, enhancing visitor experiences, and managing Channel Islands Harbor for generations to come.

Michael Tripp, Director
Ventura County Harbor Department