Faced with a rising sea level triggered by climate change, state transportation officials are exploring ways to strengthen vulnerable areas along California State Route 75, the scenic Silver Strand stretch connecting the cities of Coronado and Imperial Beach.
According to Caltrans, that seven-mile strip of land already sees flooding during storms and is likely to get worse if no action is taken. Thus the agency is conducting what it calls a “Climate Resilience Study” to identify future coastal hazards and develop plans for long-term safety and accessibility. One of the goals is to gather feedback from local residents, businesses and agencies via a survey to make the highway resilient and protect it for future generations.
The study began in February and is scheduled for completion in early 2027. During that timeframe, officials will gather information about current coastal conditions; identify key challenges; analyze how sea-level rise and storms could affect the highway; develop practical solutions to protect the corridor; and collaborate with a committee of experts to provide guidance.
Following the study, the department will produce a final report with findings and recommendations.
“Caltrans strives to make informed decisions based on local stakeholder input,” said Aaron Hunter, Caltrans external affairs manager for the area, in an email. “This first phase of engagement will assess how the community wants to address impacts such as sea-level rise and coastal erosion, desired improvements for biking, walking and non-vehicular mobility, and community priorities for design, access, safety and environmental stewardship.”
That input will be collected in an online survey created by Caltrans and its consulting partners at Communications Lab.
To access the survey and provide input, visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SR-75study.
Following the completion of this survey, Hunter said his team will develop design alternatives, then gather more public reaction.
Caltrans, which manages more than 50,000 miles of California’s highway and freeway lanes, identified climate action as one of five main issues in its 2024-28 Strategic Plan.
Hunter said a focus has been placed on studies in areas like the Silver Strand “to help Caltrans adapt to the changing climate in an equitable, safe and sustainable manner.”
He said Caltrans previously identified the highway as the No. 1 location across District 11 requiring adaptation due to impacts from sea level rise.
The district encompasses San Diego and Imperial counties.
This vulnerability is further corroborated in studies carried out by the city of Coronado, SANDAG, the U.S. Navy and others, he added.
