Santa Monica Dune Restoration Project Wins Unanimous Approval Despite Fire Concerns

Santa Monica Daily Press: The California Coastal Commission unanimously approved a controversial plan Thursday, Sept. 11, to restore 38.5 acres of native dune habitat along Santa Monica State Beach, despite fierce opposition from beachfront residents who warn the project could increase fire risks and attract homeless encampments. The Phase 3 expansion will nearly double the existing dune restoration area to cover approximately 19% of Santa Monica's sandy beach, making it one of the largest coastal habitat restoration projects in Southern California. The project builds on two smaller pilot phases that have been credited with bringing back endangered species and providing natural protection against sea level rise...