Port of Redwood City launches innovative living shoreline project

The project was designed to reduce shoreline erosion and protect the coastal ecosystems while improving long-term resilience to the ongoing threat of sea-level rise and climate change, according to a press release.

The project will upgrade an 180-foot section of shoreline near the port. This will include 648 square feet of rocky intertidal habitat — which is the coastal area between high and low tides, supporting organisms that live in tide pools — and the installation of artificial tide pools to improve ecological habitats for these creatures.

There will be added signs to educate the public and promote preservation of the habitat as well. 

“This project will provide nature-based infrastructure resiliency with long lasting environmental and educational benefits,” Kristine Zortman, executive director of the Port, said in the release. 

While hard structures can degrade over time and are structurally, and aesthetically, incongruous with the natural land, living shorelines can absorb wave energy and stabilize soil while allowing for native plants to grow. 

“By working with nature, we are creating and strengthening intertidal habitat along the port’s shoreline and helping ensure that our waterfront can be enjoyed for generations to come,” Zortman said. 

After restoration is complete, there will be a five-year monitoring plan, including reviewing target native and non-native species, erosion and more, in an effort to support adaptive practices and any future restoration work. 

“The Living Shoreline Pilot Project represents an important step toward scalable, sustainable shoreline protection and supports the port’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation,” the press release said.