San Rafael Sea Level Rise: City Seeks Solution as Clock Ticks

San Rafael is grappling with sea level rise as a new feasibility study presents three costly alternatives. The next king tide is expected on Christmas Eve 2026, threatening the vulnerable Canal community.

- The study, funded by $762,000, analyzes barrier walls, a flood gate, or land raising, with costs from $719 million to nearly $2 billion. - The Canal neighborhood, home to over 13,000 low-income Hispanic residents, faces flooding and potential displacement.

- The city has secured a FEMA grant for planning but lacks a dedicated agency to coordinate flood risk management. - Immediate actions include improving levees, restoring marshes, and upgrading pumps, but long-term solutions remain uncertain.