Posted on October 21, 2024
As climate change accelerates, its impacts on coastal cities like Santa Cruz are becoming more immediate and severe. Erosion and flooding are no longer distant threats — they are happening now. Our coastline is increasingly vulnerable. We’ve seen firsthand the destructive power of erosion, flooding and rising sea levels. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce that Santa Cruz has been awarded nearly $8 million in federal funding as part of a $71.1 million grant to the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation for the Monterey Bay region. This funding, provided through NOAA’s Climate Resilience Regional Challenge, will allow us to equitably protect our coastline and critical community spaces by taking immediate, proactive steps to address these risks head-on.
In early October, the city had the privilege of speaking at the project kickoff celebration to discuss how these federal dollars will directly benefit Santa Cruz. The funds will support three essential projects: a living shoreline at Main Beach to defend against sea level rise, the restoration of Jessie Street Marsh in the Lower Ocean Street neighborhood and the rehabilitation of the Riverlands area in San Lorenzo Park. Each location plays a crucial role in our coastal landscape, community life and infrastructure, but they are also at risk from the intensifying climate crisis.
One of the most exciting aspects of these projects is the focus on nature-based solutions. In the past, coastal protection relied heavily on hard infrastructure like seawalls and levees. While these methods can be effective, they often disrupt natural ecosystems and limit public access to the coast. Instead, we’re focusing on solutions that work with nature. Restoring marshlands, creating living shorelines and improving floodplains will naturally strengthen our coast, create habitats for wildlife and protect human infrastructure.
Another important consideration, of course, is the people who will inform and benefit from these projects. The city was an early supporter in standing up for the Monterey Bay Climate Justice Collaborative. We are thrilled the funding of that network will allow the city and our other grant partners to emphasize equitable access to the coastline, a priority as climate change disproportionately impacts vulnerable communities. It is critical that everyone in Santa Cruz has the opportunity to weigh in and enjoy our beaches and parks safely, now and in the future.
The last component of the grant to highlight is the Monterey Bay Climate Adaptation Action Network that will be formed. Collaboration between local, state and federal governments and regional organizations is essential for tackling climate change on a transformative scale. No single city can solve this crisis independently, but we can make a real impact by working together. We are proud to be part of this broader effort, where intergovernmental and community cooperation can result in real, positive change.
This grant is a lifeline for our city and shows confidence in our ability to lead in climate resilience. Our coastline is more than just a beautiful feature — it’s a cornerstone of our identity. It’s where we gather, play and connect with nature. With continued support from our community, we can implement these projects successfully and lay the groundwork for a more sustainable, resilient future. Now, let’s get to work!
You can learn more at www.cityofsantacruz.com/resilientcoast.
Fred Keeley is the mayor of Santa Cruz.
