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Caltrans and TAM launch sea‑level‑rise studies that include Corte Madera
Summary
Caltrans and the Transportation Authority of Marin have launched corridor-level sea‑level‑rise adaptation planning that covers Corte Madera; staff are on TACs, the work will assess alternatives and perform cost‑benefit analyses through 2026–2027, and the town is seeking funding to fortify the Marina Village berm.
Caltrans and the Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM) have initiated parallel sea‑level‑rise adaptation efforts that include Corte Madera’s shoreline along Highway 101, town staff told the Flood Board on Dec. 8.
Town public-works staff (unnamed) said Caltrans has started a Highway 101 corridor adaptation plan to evaluate sea-level rise, coastal erosion and storm surge risks, gather existing studies to avoid duplication, conduct cost‑benefit analysis of alternatives (including a 'do‑nothing' scenario) and perform public outreach through a technical advisory committee (TAC) that includes local jurisdictions and stakeholders.
“Caltrans has initiated, a Marin 101 Highway 11 sea of rise adaptation plan, which includes Corte Madera's coastline,” staff said (Speaker 2). Staff said Caltrans has limited authority to fund improvements outside highway right-of-way but is exploring rule changes that might allow investment in nearby berms and levees to protect the corridor and local communities.
Staff also described a TAM effort to produce resilient design guidance for transportation infrastructure across Marin. TAM’s work will produce a white paper and a draft next spring and aim to finalize guidance in the fall; staff said TAM has convened a TAC similar to Caltrans’ and that town staff will continue to participate.
Board members asked whether local creeks and streets (including Lucky Drive and areas north and south of the town) are covered; staff said the studies are countywide and the design guidance will be usable by individual jurisdictions. Staff committed to reporting public‑outreach dates and findings as the agencies publish drafts.
The board linked the regional work to local priorities: staff repeated that the Marina Village flood berm remains a top town priority but said funding is not in hand. Staff reported applying for state grants (including Coastal Commission programs) and one federal mitigation grant (FMA), but said federal funding prospects are limited and that the town may use limited town funds for short‑term measures such as sandbags while continuing to seek design funds.
