Riverview Park

City of Pittsburg

Advanced

 

Riverview Park is a popular advanced kiteboarding launch due to the optimal wind conditions and support amenities. This site can also be used by windsurfers. The water access features two cement ramps from the top of the riprap jetty that extends north from Riverview Park and protects the Pittsburg Marina to the east. There is a sandy shoulder area on the top of the jetty that provides sufficient width for laying down kites or kites can be rigged on the grass lawn in the park. The site hosts a popular kiteboarding competition annually.

Use

Strong winds and sufficient space for rigging and launching has made this a kiteboarding site that is popular with advanced kiters. The shoreline is heavily armored, but an access path / ramp provides a way through to the water. The site hosts an annual kiteboarding competition – The Delta Board Meeting - run by the City of Pittsburg Waterfront Division and professional kiteboarders.

Rigging / Launching

Boardsailors will park within the main parking lot. Gear is rigged on the grass lawns located within the park adjacent to the top of the jetty. Kites are launched on a wider portion of the jetty. Two self-launch anchors are provided to allow self launching.

Safety

This site is recommended for advanced riders only. The narrow jetty top, armored with riprap on both sides, leaves little margin for error. Along the top of the jetty “kiteboarding zone” has been stenciled on the path to let others know to be aware of kiters. A detailed kiteboarding safety sign located at the entrance of the jetty provides use rules and safety etiquette for site use.

Amenities

Riverview Park is a 4-acre park located along the edge of the San Joaquin / Sacramento River. There is a large picnic area with five picnic tables and a large bbq pit. Additional facilities include restrooms with an outdoor shower, lawns, a playground.

SWOT Analysis

 

Strengths

The site’s relative advantages

• Formal water access with adequate space for kiteboarding and windsurfing rigging and launching
• One of few access locations on the lower San Joaquin/Sacramento River
• Popular with advanced riders and hosts a professional competition every year
• Signage and a designated kiteboarding zone help encourage safe site use
• Self-launch anchors for use by advanced kiters

Weaknesses

Issues or characteristics that limit or degrade site use unless they are eliminated or minimized

• Narrow jetty top launch lined with riprap make it suitable only to advanced kiters

Opportunities

Actions that could contribute to improved site use and/or user experience

• Continue to grow and encourage competitions at the site
• If site use grows, implement SFBA safety program, plus docents & outreach materials to ensure visitors and those less familiar with the site understand proper use and etiquette.

Threats

Factors or trends that could threaten site use 

• Kiters not following proper site safety procedure
• Placement of new impediments between parking / rigging area and the water