Downtown Coastal Resilience Project

The proposed Project will improve coastal flood and earthquake resilience along this iconic stretch of Embarcadero Waterfront using a combination of targeted improvements and major seawall reconstruction.  This area was once Yerba Buena Cove, a shallow tidal marsh extending up to four blocks inland before being filled in the late 1800’s.  Today it contains the historic Ferry Building, BART and Muni underground transit, Water Emergency Transportation Authority and Golden Gate Ferry terminals, and open spaces including Rincon Park.  The shoreline in this area is at low elevation and is at risk of flooding today.   

Full seawall replacement is planned for the most vulnerable segment, from the Agriculture Building through Rincon Park. Targeted flood protection and seismic strengthening is planned from the Ferry Building to Pier 9.  The targeted improvements will reduce risk prior to a future project that will replace the Seawall.  Opportunities include preserving the Historic Agriculture Building and improving adjacent public spaces, enhancing Rincon Park, creating Bay habitat with living seawalls and shoreline habitat features, and upgrading interior drainage systems.   

Location: Northeast Waterfront, Embarcadero between Broadway and Harrison Streets 

Updates
  • Project scoping is in progress 

  • Concept development scheduled 2026 through 2027 

  • Community engagement expected to begin summer 2026. 

Documents

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