Innovative 'Living' Levee in Palo Alto Baylands Addresses Sea-Level Rise

A new horizontal living levee is being constructed in Palo Alto Baylands to address sea-level rise in an environmentally friendly manner. This project aims to protect habitats, treat wastewater, and safeguard critical infrastructure without traditional construction methods like concrete walls.

According to Heidi Nutters of the San Francisco Estuary Partnership, this initiative reflects a community desire for nature-based solutions. The levee is 315 feet long and utilizes treated wastewater to enhance wetlands, improving water quality in the bay.

Karin North, the city of Palo Alto's assistant Public Works director, highlights the multiple benefits of the project, which include habitat protection and infrastructure safeguarding. The completion date for the levee is expected in Spring 2026.

This innovative solution could serve as a model for future projects in the Bay Area.