Rep. Mike Levin Celebrates Completion of Encinitas-Solana Beach Sand Replenishment Project

On May 13, 2024, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49), joined by leaders of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the cities of Encinitas and Solana Beach, announced the completion of the sand replenishment and storm damage reduction project for both cities. 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.

The project widened the beaches in Encinitas and Solana Beach to mitigate storm damage, prevent dangerous erosion, improve public safety, and expand recreational benefits. Rep. Levin secured $30.5 million in federal funding for the Encinitas-Solana Beach Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“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. “After years of planning and months of hard work, I’m proud to see this project finally complete. Like so many in North County, I’m excited to enjoy these new, wider beaches this summer.”

“The work here at Encinitas and Solana Beach solidifies the successful signing of a project partnership agreement last year for shoreline protection for both cities,” said Col. Andrew Baker, Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District. “It is an honor to see this project come to fruition. We could not have gotten to where we are today without all of our partners – those who continue to advocate for and support these projects, and those who continue to make the safety and well-being of these communities and their people their priority.”

"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. "This transformative project not only underscores our dedication to preserving Encinitas' coastal identity but also reinforces our commitment to safeguarding our invaluable city assets. I can’t wait to see our residents and visitors enjoy the newly replenished beaches this summer and beyond."

“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 South Orange County, which is part of Rep. Levin’s Congressional District, construction of the San Clemente Shoreline Protection Project is currently underway. Rep. Levin secured $9.3 million in federal funding for that project. It involves placing sand on the beach from Linda Lane to T-Street to prevent storm damage, protect vital infrastructure like the LOSSAN Rail Corridor, and improve recreational benefits for the public. It is expected to be completed in June 2024. As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Rep. Levin has also secured $1.8 million in federal funding for the Oceanside Special Shoreline Study to plan for mitigation of the erosion and other impacts resulting from the construction of Camp Pendleton Harbor, and restoration of beach conditions along the affected shores in Oceanside to the conditions that existed before the construction of the Harbor.

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Watch this story on CBS to learn more.