Abstract

The City of Santa Cruz has long been a leader in environmental sustainability and disaster recovery. Santa Cruz has extensive experience in preparing for and responding to disasters such as earthquakes, floods and drought. The community has come back from each experience stronger and better prepared for what lies ahead. We have not only recovered from these hazards but have strengthened our city by taking steps to avoid the impacts of these hazards should they occur again. As an example, our downtown corridor along Pacific Avenue was nearly destroyed by the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. The community rebuilt downtown to standards that make each building and the whole of downtown better prepared should another earthquake event. Hazard mitigation planning contributes to the protection of lives, property and the economic vitality of our city. The 1989 earthquake was devastating but it was also an opportunity to create a safer and more disaster resistant city. 

The intent of this CAP Update is to identify and quantify our most significant potential climate change risks and vulnerabilities, and to revise our action plan in guiding current and future decision makers in protecting our natural and built environment, our residents and visitors, our economic base, and our quality of life. Having a well-researched CAP Update that draws on the latest science and condition of the City creates the opportunity for the City to apply for FEMA and other funding to address next step studies and identified adaptation priorities.