ASCE OC EWRI: Preparing for Rising Seas - Engineering the Future under Senate Bill 272

On June 5th, the Environmental & Water Resources Institute (EWRI) of ASCE Orange County hosted an insightful technical luncheon focused on Senate Bill No. 272, a pivotal piece of legislation that will shape how California's coastal communities respond to sea level rise. The event brought together engineers, planners, and policymakers to explore how local agencies can plan for a resilient coastal future. With the 2034 deadline looming, this presentation served as both a wake-up call and a roadmap for action.

Senate Bill 272 requires that all California cities and counties with coastal boundaries update their Local Coastal Programs (LCPs) to include actionable sea level rise adaptation strategies. The legislation underscores the state's commitment to addressing the impacts of climate change. It mandates that the California Coastal Commission, in collaboration with the Ocean Protection Council (OPC), provide guidance to assist local agencies in this process.

The event featured two highly qualified speakers: Jeremy Smith, PE, Coastal Engineer at the California Coastal Commission, and Dr. Weixia Jin, PE, Vice President and Southern California Technical Director at Moffatt & Nichol. Jeremy Smith offered insight into the Commission's role in implementing SB 272 and discussed technical guidance for evaluating coastal hazards. Dr. Jin provided an engineer's perspective on integrating adaptation strategies into infrastructure design and local government planning. Together, they laid out a comprehensive overview of the tools, tactics, and frameworks necessary to meet the bill's requirements.

Dr. Jia presents about her SB 272 experience.

Key themes emerged during the presentation. First, the speakers emphasized the range of adaptation strategies available to local jurisdictions, including traditional "protect" measures, such as seawalls, as well as "accommodate" strategies, such as beach nourishment and elevating structures. Importantly, they addressed the politically and technically challenging concept of "managed retreat" as a long-term option in some areas. Second, they emphasized the importance of local capacity building, empowering city staff, consultants, and engineers with the necessary skills and knowledge to assess risks and develop feasible adaptation pathways.

One of the most resonant points was the need for inclusive planning. The speakers stressed that sea level rise adaptation must incorporate environmental justice principles. Public engagement, tribal consultation, and equitable access to resources are essential for developing plans that protect all community members, not just those with beachfront property or political influence.

The event was generously sponsored by Moffatt & Nichol, whose support helped facilitate an informative and engaging session focused on the future of California's coastal resilience.

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About the Author:

Ben Smith oversees OCWD's recharge basins and wetlands while keeping billions of gallons in check. With dual master's degrees in Civil Engineering and Public Administration, he somehow makes water policy sound cool—even to college students he teaches on the side. From PFAS to percolation, Ben keeps the flow going (literally).