Carpinteria, Calif. – In response to the forecast of stronger storms and higher tides this winter, the City of Carpinteria has moved forward with a protective sand berm project that will run along the most vulnerable stretch of the town’s beachfront. The berm, which will be roughly 1,400 feet long and about nine and a half feet high, is being built this week directly in front of residential and rental properties between Ash Avenue and Linden Avenue.
City approval and construction details
The project received formal approval from the Carpinteria City Council and the California Coastal Commission earlier this year. Precise measurements were taken before construction began, and the work is being carried out by a bulldozer operated by Peter Lapidus Construction. The city’s public‑works department confirmed that the berm will not extend in front of the state beach east of Linden Avenue, preserving public beach access while still providing a buffer for private properties.
Why the berm matters for homeowners
Many property owners in the area have already taken steps to reinforce decks, windows, and other vulnerable parts of their homes in anticipation of harsher weather. “We took the mat up and they are going to put a berm in front to protect it,” local resident Richard Giacopuzzi said. “We are going to get some sand bags and put them in front of the sliders to protect the areas most prone to have problems.”
The city expects the highest tides of the year to occur around November 24 and December 23, making the timing of the berm especially critical. Officials indicated that additional sand‑bagging or reinforcement work may be needed in the coming months as storms continue, with a full assessment expected in the spring.
Community response and next steps
Residents have expressed relief that the city is taking proactive measures to safeguard homes and rental units that form the backbone of Carpinteria’s coastal community. The berm is viewed as a cost‑effective, temporary solution that can be adjusted or removed as conditions change, aligning with the city’s commitment to responsible stewardship of the shoreline.
City staff will monitor the berm’s performance throughout the storm season and will provide updates to homeowners. If further action is required, the city plans to coordinate additional public‑works efforts, always with input from the community and in compliance with state coastal regulations.
Looking ahead
While the sand berm offers immediate protection, city officials stress that long‑term resilience will also depend on continued maintenance of private properties, proper drainage, and adherence to building codes. The city encourages homeowners to stay informed about upcoming weather advisories and to follow any additional guidance issued by the public‑works department.
For more information about the sand berm project or to report concerns, residents can contact the Carpinteria Public Works Office during regular business hours.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
