Port of San Diego Expands Habitat-Friendly Shoreline Projects After Successful Pilot Program
Contact: Gabriella Rodriguez, 619.904.2137, grodriguez@portofsandiego.org
The Port of San Diego is installing more habitat-friendly shoreline structures designed to strengthen coastal resilience while improving public access to and protecting San Diego Bay. At its March 10, 2026 meeting, the Board of Port Commissioners awarded a construction contract to Power Engineering Construction Co. in the amount of $2.9 million for two projects – one along Harbor Island Park in San Diego and one along the Chula Vista side of the Sweetwater Channel.
Across San Diego Bay, approximately 74 percent of the shoreline is hardened with traditional structures such as seawalls and riprap. While effective for coastal protection, these structures typically provide limited habitat value for marine life. The Port’s habitat-friendly shoreline approach integrates nature-based solutions with coastal infrastructure to restore habitat while maintaining shoreline stability.
For these latest projects, the Port is again working with ECOncrete, which installed its COASTALOCK system along a 160-foot stretch of Harbor Island in 2021 as part of a pilot project. After several years of monitoring, Port staff found the habitat-enhancing armor units were not only structurally resilient but also supported more than 60 marine species that now inhabit the structures. Another added benefit of the project is improved water quality – the units attract species that naturally filter the water. The pilot was made possible through the Port’s Blue Economy Incubator.
At both new sites, portions of traditional rock shoreline will be replaced with ECOncrete’s innovative, nature-based system. Together, the projects represent a significant step forward in the Port of San Diego’s ongoing efforts to balance environmental stewardship with public enjoyment of the bay.
“These projects reflect the Port’s commitment to protecting the health of San Diego Bay while making sure people can continue to connect with and enjoy our waterfront,” said Port of San Diego Board Chair Ann Moore. “We are grateful to Congressman Scott Peters who helped provide funding for the Harbor Island project. By investing in innovative shoreline solutions that support marine life and strengthen coastal resilience, we’re also helping preserve coastal access so residents and visitors can experience the beauty of our bay for generations to come.”
“San Diego has always been at the forefront of innovation across so many sectors, and the Port is no exception," said Congressman Scott Peters. "Habitat-friendly shoreline structures will protect and foster local biodiversity and ecosystems, without compromising critical shoreline infrastructure. I helped secure funding for this project after the success of the pilot program, and I look forward to seeing it continue to strengthen our Blue Economy."
Funding for the Harbor Island project includes $1 million from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The separate but complementary project along the Sweetwater Channel is supported by $2.6 million through a supplemental environmental project agreement with the City of San Diego. The Sweetwater Channel improvements will take place adjacent to Paradise Marsh and will provide similar habitat-enhancing shoreline features.
Fabrication of the shoreline units is anticipated to start in April 2026, followed by construction.
ABOUT THE PORT OF SAN DIEGO
The Port of San Diego serves the people of California as a specially created district, balancing multiple uses on 34 miles along San Diego Bay spanning five cities. Collecting no tax dollars, the Port manages a diverse portfolio to generate revenues that support vital public services and amenities.
The Port champions Maritime, Waterfront Development, Public Safety, Experiences and Environment, all focused on enriching the relationship people and businesses have with our dynamic waterfront. From cargo and cruise terminals to hotels and restaurants, from marinas to museums, from 23 public parks to countless events, the Port contributes to the region’s prosperity and remarkable way of life on a daily basis.
About Port of San Diego Waterfront Development
Port of San Diego Waterfront Development contributes to the continuous prosperity of the local economy.
From Real Estate to Aquaculture and Blue Tech, the Port invests in major redevelopment and community infrastructure, so businesses in our region have the opportunity to stay competitive in the global marketplace.