The Santa Barbara Waterfront is a defining feature of the city, serving as a hub for recreation, commerce, and natural beauty. However, with rising sea levels and increasing storm surges threatening coastal infrastructure, the city has launched a proactive effort to safeguard its shoreline for future generations. The Santa Barbara Sustainability & Resilience Department has begun developing a comprehensive 30-Year Waterfront Adaptation Plan, an ambitious initiative aimed at addressing the long-term effects of climate change while preserving the waterfront’s essential functions.
The plan is designed to prepare Santa Barbara’s coastline for the growing risks of storm surges, flooding, and erosion. By taking a forward-thinking approach, the city hopes to create practical, on-the-ground solutions that will protect critical infrastructure, maintain beach access, support commerce, and enhance recreational opportunities. The goal is not only to mitigate the environmental impacts but also to ensure that residents and visitors alike can continue to enjoy the waterfront for decades to come.
“The Waterfront is already at risk of flooding, storm surge, and erosion during coastal storms, and these impacts will get worse with even small amounts of sea-level rise,” said Timmy Bolton, Climate Adaptation Analyst for the City of Santa Barbara. “The 30-Year Waterfront Adaptation Plan will move the needle from planning to on-the-ground projects that will create a more resilient future for our community.”
Community engagement is a key component of the planning process, and city officials are encouraging residents to participate. Local input will help shape the adaptation strategies, ensuring that the plan aligns with the needs and priorities of those who rely on the waterfront. To facilitate public involvement, the city has launched an online survey that allows residents to share their perspectives on the waterfront’s future. The survey is available at SantaBarbaraCA.gov/WaterfrontSurvey and will remain open until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025.
In addition to the survey, community members are invited to stay informed and engaged throughout the planning process by visiting SantaBarbaraCA.gov/WaterfrontAdaptation. The website provides updates on the project’s progress and offers opportunities to sign up for news alerts. For those with specific questions or input, Climate Adaptation Analyst Timmy Bolton is available for direct inquiries at (805) 730-0836 or via email at [email protected].
Funding for the 30-Year Waterfront Adaptation Plan has been secured through grants from the California Coastal Commission and the California State Coastal Conservancy. These state agencies recognize the urgency of addressing coastal resilience and are supporting efforts to develop innovative solutions that balance environmental conservation with community needs.
As climate change continues to reshape coastal landscapes, Santa Barbara is taking a proactive stance by planning ahead. With a focus on sustainability, community input, and strategic investments, the city’s Waterfront Adaptation Plan aims to ensure that its cherished coastline remains both functional and beautiful for generations to come.
