San Clemente secures $1 million for North Beach sand replenishment

San Clemente has secured $1 million in state funding to assist with sand replenishment at North Beach. Mayor Rick Loeffler stated that the additional funds, secured through state legislation and Senator Tony Strickland, will allow the city to double its efforts, potentially scooping up $2 million worth of sand instead of the $1 million originally allocated from city funds.

The replenishment project is a priority as the city prepares for an anticipated Super El Niño, which threatens to cause significant coastal erosion and shift the town’s already scarce sand supply. San Clemente has already declared a state of emergency in anticipation of upcoming fall and winter storms.

In addition to protecting the shoreline, the project aims to support critical infrastructure, including the beachfront rail line. While the city also requires maintenance funds for its pier, recent engineering inspections have confirmed the structure is currently sound, allowing the city to prioritize beach restoration.