San Mateo County Flood District addresses climate resilience through regional projects

The City Council of Atherton held a regular meeting on April 16, 2025, focusing on critical issues related to flood management and climate resilience in the region. The meeting featured a presentation from representatives of the San Mateo County Flood and Sea Level Rise Resiliency District, known as Riverline, which highlighted the district's history, current projects, and future initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

The presentation began with an overview of the district's establishment in 2019, which aimed to enhance flood control measures and address vulnerabilities related to sea level rise, wildfires, and extreme weather events. The district's unique position in California was emphasized, noting its high number of at-risk properties and infrastructure.

Key infrastructure concerns were discussed, particularly the water treatment plant serving Atherton and surrounding areas, which is vulnerable to flooding during high tides. The representatives stressed the importance of regional shoreline adaptation planning, mandated by new state requirements, to ensure the resilience of essential services such as electricity, water, and transportation.

The meeting also addressed ongoing projects, including the Bayfront Canal and Atherton Channel project, which aims to improve flood management in the area. This project, initiated in 2009, faced delays due to jurisdictional challenges but was successfully advanced with collaboration among local cities. The representatives noted that the project had already demonstrated its effectiveness during recent storms, preventing flooding that had previously occurred.

Additionally, the district is expanding its flood early warning system, which currently includes 32 gauges across the county. This system alerts both agencies and the public about potential flooding, providing critical data for project development. Future expansions of the system were proposed, including the installation of additional gauges in Atherton to enhance real-time monitoring of water levels.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for the Town of Atherton to collaborate on further flood management initiatives, particularly in enhancing the early warning system. The representatives expressed optimism about the potential for joint efforts to improve resilience against flooding and climate-related challenges in the community.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of proactive measures and regional cooperation in addressing the pressing issues of flood management and climate resilience in Atherton and surrounding areas. The council's engagement with Riverline reflects a commitment to safeguarding the community against future environmental threats.