San Clemente Officials and Residents Pursue Coastal Restoration and Wildfire Prevention Funding
San Clemente city officials and residents are collaborating to address coastal erosion and wildfire risks. City efforts include securing partnerships and funding for beach restoration, with a proposed 1% sales tax increase aimed for the November 2026 ballot to fund projects.
Recent approvals have restarted the Sand Compatibility and Opportunistic Use Program, allowing the city to bring 300,000 cubic yards of sand annually to four beaches. A feasibility study proposes an emergent rocky reef breakwater at North Beach to protect sand.
In addition, over 200,000 cubic yards of sand have been added through partnerships with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Last year's tax initiative failed, but a new proposal includes funding for both coastal restoration and wildfire prevention, addressing significant local hazards. Orange County officials are also evaluating long-term solutions to protect the Pacific Surfliner rail line from erosion.
