Solana Beach and Encinitas have completed a major beach-widening project that promises to mitigate storm damage and prevent erosion.
The project involved pumping 340,000 cubic yards of sand along 7,800 feet of beach in Encinitas, and 700,000 cubic yards of sand along 7,200 feet of beach in Solana Beach.
Democratic Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49), joined by representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and city leaders from Encinitas and Solana Beach, announced the completion of the sand replenishment and storm damage reduction project for both cities.
“Throughout my time in Congress, I’ve fought for federal funding for projects like this one, which will not only provide benefits to residents but also mitigate the impacts of climate change and coastal erosion. It’s a win for our entire district,” said Rep. Levin, who secured $30.5 million for the Encinitas-Solana Beach Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
“As Mayor of Encinitas, I am immensely proud of our city’s stunning beaches, which truly embody the essence of our community,” said Encinitas Mayor Tony Kranz in a statement.
“This transformative project not only underscores our dedication to preserving Encinitas’ coastal identity but also reinforces our commitment to safeguarding our invaluable city assets.”
“This is one of the most significant infrastructure projects in our City’s history, and a testament to the benefit of local, state and federal partnerships,” said Solana Beach mayor Lesa Heebner. “Because of Congressman Levin’s effective advocacy for this project, not only are our beaches wider for increased recreational use and able to host more visitors, but they are safer and more resilient.”
In the Orange County portion of Levin’s district, construction of the San Clemente Shoreline Protection Project is currently underway.
Levin has also secured $1.8 million in federal funding for the Oceanside Special Shoreline Study to plan for mitigation of erosion and other effects resulting from the construction of Camp Pendleton Harbor and restoration of beach conditions along the affected shores in Oceanside.