UPDATE: Officials in Suisun City held an urgent community meeting on October 23, 2023, to address the looming threat of sea level rise through the Solano Bayshore Resiliency Project. This initiative is crucial as rising global temperatures lead to significant environmental changes, with projections indicating sea levels could increase by up to 6 feet by the year 2100.
The meeting, which saw approximately ten community members in attendance, kicked off a series of discussions aimed at engaging the public in planning efforts for coastal resilience. Co-Chair Meg Herston emphasized the project’s need to prepare for a potential sea level rise of 6.5 feet coupled with a 10-foot storm surge to safeguard vulnerable shoreline communities.
“Climate change is not a distant issue. It sounds very abstract, but it is not distant at all,” Herston stated, highlighting the immediate need for action. The project comes as new data reveals that rising greenhouse gas emissions have caused oceans to absorb 90 percent of the Earth’s heat, resulting in annual land shrinkage of approximately 3.3 millimeters.
Mayor Alma Hernandez opened the meeting by commending attendees for their commitment to the community’s future. “There’s nothing greater than having our community become involved with such important topics like this one,” she said, underscoring the complexity of the work ahead. Hernandez noted the importance of community outreach efforts, such as flood walks, to raise awareness about the impacts of sea level rise.
The project aims to conduct a vulnerability assessment by February 2026, identifying communities and infrastructure at risk, followed by the development of an action plan by August 2027. Community members expressed their hopes for a shoreline that remains resilient, safe, and sustainable, with many currently utilizing the area for recreational activities.
As the planning phase unfolds, officials plan to host at least two events in each affected community, fostering greater public engagement. The project will rely heavily on social media to disseminate information, as traditional outreach methods have proven less effective.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in upcoming meetings, as their input will be vital to shaping the future of Solano County’s coastal resilience. As climate change continues to pose a direct threat to millions globally, the Solano Bayshore Resiliency Project represents a proactive step towards safeguarding the community against inevitable environmental challenges.
As the situation develops, community members and stakeholders are urged to remain engaged and informed about the ongoing efforts to combat sea level rise in their area.
