Valley Water held a groundbreaking ceremony earlier this week to commemorate the start of construction on the first phase of the South San Francisco Bay Shoreline Project.
Valley Water is partnering with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the California State Coastal Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service on the construction of this multi-objective infrastructure project.
Construction crews recently began work on the first phase of a 4-mile coastal flood risk levee.
When the project is complete, it will reduce coastal flood risk for approximately 5,500 residents, commuters and businesses within the vicinity of Alviso.
“This project is extremely important for both reducing flood risk and restoring tidal wetlands, as we look to build a resilient shoreline here in the South Bay against the impacts of climate change,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Arnett , Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers San Francisco District.
“We are proud to partner with Valley Water, Coastal Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, with everyone committed to making this project a success.”
The project will also provide large environmental benefits that will be felt across all sections of San Francisco Bay.
The work will restore and enhance 2,900-acres of tidal marsh and related habitat lost due to former salt pond production activities.
Native fish, birds, plants and other wildlife that once thrived along the Bay will slowly start returning to help create a healthier environment.