Support Stormwater Solutions in Manhattan Beach

Stormwater runoff is one of the leading sources of coastal pollution. When it rains, water flows off streets and hard surfaces into storm drains, carrying bacteria, trash, and other pollutants directly to the ocean. This runoff is a major contributor to beach water quality issues and frequent high bacteria levels along the coast.

The City of Manhattan Beach voted to approve the 28th Street Stormwater Infiltration Project, an infrastructure solution designed to capture and infiltrate stormwater before it reaches the shoreline. Once implemented, the project is expected to infiltrate approximately 60% of the city’s stormwater, significantly reducing polluted runoff to Santa Monica Bay and improving coastal water quality.

The South Bay Chapter played a key role in advocating for this project by leveraging data from Surfrider’s Blue Water Task Force program. Chapter volunteers used local water quality monitoring data to highlight persistent bacteria issues linked to stormwater runoff and demonstrate the urgent need for upstream solutions. By pairing community science with policy advocacy, the chapter helped elevate the case for investing in stormwater infrastructure that protects public health, beach access, and the long-term health of our coastline.