WATSONVILLE, CA — The Pajaro River Flood Risk Reduction Project may soon move out of the planning phase and into the design phase. Congressman Jimmy Panetta, elected officials' staff and officials from local, state and federal agencies will attend next week at a public meeting to discuss the project.
The Levee Project aims to increase flood protection by rebuilding levees, or adding setback levees or floodwalls to ensure that floodwaters can be contained in the Pajaro River channel, according to a City of Santa Cruz press release.
At one time, the project was estimated to cost $200 million. It's been delayed more than a decade.
The Santa Cruz Sentinel reported in 2008 that the project was "years behind schedule" and the "top legislative priority" for the City of Santa Cruz.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been preparing a report that would make it possible to receive state funding for the flood risk prevention project.
The Pajaro River Watershed Flood Prevention Authority Meeting will be held Friday, Dec. 13 at 1 p.m. in Watsonville's Civic Center COmmunity Room (275 Main St., 4th floor).
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Watsonville, CA Patch
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