FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Erika Smart, Communications Manager

Santa Cruz, California [July 26, 2024] - The City of Santa Cruz is proud to announce the award of nearly $8 million from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through the Climate Resilience Regional Challenge.

This grant is part of a larger $71 million award to the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities in the Monterey Bay region. The funded projects will address challenges posed by extreme weather events and other climate change impacts, such as sea level rise, atmospheric rivers, and drought.

The City will use its portion of the funding to support the planning, design, and construction of resiliency projects at three critical locations: the mouth of the San Lorenzo River on Main Beach, San Lorenzo Park, and Jessie Street Marsh. The Santa Cruz City Council has previously provided direction to evaluate the use of nature-based solutions to enhance coastal resilience and this award will put that direction into action.

"Our coastline is a natural treasure and vital part of our community's identity," said Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keeley. "This funding from NOAA is a critical step in our ongoing efforts to protect our beaches, parks, and infrastructure from the growing impacts of climate change. It allows us to take proactive measures to implement nature-based solutions that safeguard public safety, recreational access, and the natural habitats that make Santa Cruz unique."

This funding supports the ongoing Resilient Coast Santa Cruz Initiative, the City’s broad strategy for coastal management. Through this initiative, the City is developing new policies, plans, and monitoring to ensure safe and equitable access to the coastline for current and future generations.

For questions, please contact Dr. Tiffany Wise-West, Sustainability and Resilience Officer at twise-west@santacruzca.gov or 831-420-5433.

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