Access Mat Added At Venice Beach

VENICE, CA — Venice Beach became more accessible to visitors Tuesday, especially for people who might have difficulty crossing the sand.

The Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors Tuesday unrolled a new access mat near the Venice Boulevard beach parking lot at 2100 Ocean Front Walk.

"One of the great joys of going to the beach is spending time on the sand near the water," L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, whose district includes Venice, said in a statement.

"Now, with the use of this new mat, people who have difficulty negotiating the sand can more fully and safely enjoy a glorious day at Venice Beach," Kuehl said.

The beach access mats are made of fine nylon mesh and are designed for people who use wheelchairs or may otherwise need a firmer surface to traverse the sand. The mat will start at the Marvin Braude Bike Trail and end in a "T" shape closer to the water's edge. It will be available annually from around spring through fall.

Semi-permanent mats are part of the county's efforts to expand access at iconic beaches across Los Angeles County. The Venice Beach mat will be the eighth. Beach wheelchairs also remain available.

See an interactive map of all access mat and beach wheelchair locations: beaches.lacounty.gov/access.