“I’m thrilled that the state has taken the lead by providing new funding for the city of Manhattan Beach and communities across California to increase protection of our environment and mitigate flood risks,” said Mayor Hildy Stern in a statement. “This grant aligns with the city’s sustainability initiatives and enables the city to begin the first phase of the project that will enhance beach conditions and provide multiple environmental benefits to reduce water runoff and water pollution.”

The 28th Street Stormwater Infiltration Project is the city's cornerstone project under the Enhanced Watershed Management Program to capture stormwater runoff.

Currently, stormwater outflows at the beach at the terminus of 28th Street. The outfall is submerged during high tide, which can cause backflow and localized flooding during storm events.

The project will divert and capture runoff generated within 60% of the city’s boundaries, and prevent pollutants, such as bacteria, trash, and debris generated in the drainage area from reaching the beach and Santa Monica Bay.

Stormwater Infiltration Project

The 28th Street Storm Drain Infiltration Project would occur in 2 phases –

• Phase 1 - installation of a matrix of drywells beneath the 26th Street parking facility; and
• Phase 2 - construction of an infiltration trench at the beach between 25th Street and 28th Street with native dune habitat restoration.