Santa Monica's sandy shores are more than just a picturesque retreat — they're a bulwark against climate change. The city's sustainability efforts are stepping up with a new dune restoration project aimed at shielding the coast from the impacts of sea level rise and flooding, as detailed in the latest staff report on the initiative. As mentioned by the City of Santa Monica, these efforts are part of a broader Climate Action and Adaptation Plan that considers beach dunes a key element in the city's defense strategy.

Lauded for their dual purpose of coastal protection, and public enjoyment, the ongoing Beach Dune projects have already seen two phases of implementation. The first, started in 2016, comprised a three-acre area and, according to The Bay Foundation's (TBF) Year 5 Annual Report, has "encouraged sand hummocks to form along fence lines and within the project area." The second phase, which began this year, aims to replicate these successes over an additional five acres.

Not resting on their laurels, Santa Monica officials are now pushing for Phase 3, a plan that envisions adding 43 acres of dunes, complete with California native vegetation. The proposed layout consists of interconnected smaller polygons, strategically placed to enhance shoreline protection and storm drain beauty. As per the City Council's August 27 meeting, there's enthusiasm for this latest chapter in shoreline safeguarding. This phase, still in planning, will take community feedback into account during the decision-making process, ensuring that recreational areas like volleyball courts and permitted sites remain accessible to the public.