California Breaks Ground on Critical Flood Protection Project in Central Valley
California has initiated a major flood protection project in Stockton, marking a significant step toward climate resilience. The $1.95 billion Tenmile Slough levee project, part of the broader Lower San Joaquin River Project, aims to enhance flood defenses for 122,000 residents and safeguard $28.7 billion in property. Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the importance of such investments in preparing communities for extreme weather events linked to climate change. This endeavor reflects a collaborative effort among federal, state, and local agencies to bolster infrastructure and public safety.
The Tenmile Slough levee, identified as the most critically deficient in the Central Valley, addresses longstanding flood risks highlighted by the 1997 floods. This project is a component of the Central Valley Flood Protection Plan, which outlines comprehensive strategies for flood risk reduction in the Sacramento and San Joaquin River Basins. Additional initiatives under this plan include the Pajaro River Flood Risk Management Project and the American River Common Features Project, collectively representing billions in infrastructure investments to protect communities across California.
