Arup leading transformative shoreline protection and connectivity study for South San Francisco’s waterfront

The City of South San Francisco and Arup are working closely to shape a coordinated vision for mobility, access, and coastal resilience, transforming several sites east of the 101 for future development. Arup brings deep expertise in coastal resilience, civil engineering, and transportation planning, while the City provides critical local guidance, community insights, and leadership in shaping a plan rooted in public needs and priorities.

In collaboration with partner agencies and community groups, the project team is identifying solutions that address the unique complexity of connectivity, mobility, and vulnerability to coastal challenges along the shoreline.

“Sea level rise is one of the defining infrastructure challenges facing Bay Area shoreline communities, and South San Francisco is taking a proactive approach,” said EuneJune Kim, Director of City of South San Francisco’s Public Works Department. “This feasibility study allows us to look ahead and thoughtfully plan for solutions that protect critical infrastructure and strengthen the long-term resilience of our shoreline. By investing in sustainable strategies today, we’re helping ensure our waterfront remains safe and accessible for generations to come.” 

“South San Francisco’s shoreline is one of the Bay Area’s most dynamic corridors that serves many purposes, from a global nucleus for innovation to a recreational draw for the local community. Arup is proud to partner with the City of South San Francisco to deliver solutions that honor the region’s ecological heritage, strengthen climate resilience, and connect people to opportunity,” said Brooke DuBose, Associate Principal in Climate & Transportation at Arup. “Our team is committed to shaping a shoreline that will support the growth of this waterfront hub and safeguard the community against climate challenges for generations to come.”

The South San Francisco shoreline has evolved from tidal marshlands and landfill into a vibrant area with robust foot-traffic, including a thriving biotech hub and a mixed-use waterfront destination. This project represents a confluence of urban challenges: mobility and development within sensitive bay habitats and the urgent need for climate adaptation, where the threat of sea level rise demands bold action to ensure a resilient shoreline. This plan is a critical step in addressing long-term flood risks and persistent transportation network constraints.

One alternative option to be considered will be a new corridor connection designed to function as a multimodal transportation link, integrating solutions for improved mobility, access, and connectivity across the city’s eastern waterfront that will double as a sea level rise adaption measure. The study will identify viable options for future design and construction phases, including enhancements for public transit, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and multi-modal connections to key destinations. By prioritizing multimodal strategies, the project aims to reduce congestion and foster a more accessible and resilient transportation network for South San Francisco. 

The team includes local engagement specialists Winter Consultants, who bring expertise in inclusive outreach strategies to help shape an equitable plan; WRT, who are contributing integrated adaptation design solutions; Fehr & Peers, who bring multimodal transportation planning; and San Francisco Estuary Institute, who are environmental and ecological experts.

This study marks the first step towards a more resilient, connected future for South San Francisco’s shoreline, setting the stage for transformative development and community enrichment.