Rep. Panetta Commends Perpetual Agreement to Support Dredging of Santa Cruz Harbor
Santa Cruz, CA – U.S. Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced that the Santa Cruz Port District and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) have officially executed a renewed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that will permanently ensure the annual dredging of the Santa Cruz Harbor. This agreement marks the culmination of four years of persistent negotiation and advocacy, and it guarantees a long-term, cost-sharing partnership to maintain a safe and navigable channel.
“For years, the Santa Cruz Harbor faced uncertainty over the long-term stability of its federal dredging support, putting local safety, jobs, and maritime access at risk,” said Rep. Panetta. “This renewed agreement provides a permanent, cost-sharing solution that ensures the harbor remains safe, navigable, and operational year-round. I’m proud to stand with our local leaders to ensure that the federal government deliver the resources for California’s 19th Congressional District.”
The MOA provides for an ongoing cost-sharing arrangement in which the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will contribute 35 percent of the annual dredging expenses, ensuring stable federal support for harbor operations moving forward.
“The Santa Cruz Port District is grateful for the support provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to maintain a safe and navigable channel for the boating public,” said Toby Goddard, Chair of the Santa Cruz Port Commission. “Through this new cost-sharing agreement, the Port District will continue to perform annual dredging of the harbor entrance. The Army Corps will contribute 35 percent of the annual expense to operate and maintain the dredge. We are indebted to Congressman Panetta, who has worked diligently on behalf of the Port District to reach consensus, secure funding, and ensure continuing access to the waters of Monterey Bay.”
Santa Cruz Harbor plays a critical role on the Central Coast, supporting search and rescue missions, sustaining commercial and recreational boating, and serving as a harbor of refuge. It is home to charter and commercial fishing operations, the U.S. Coast Guard’s seasonal Station Santa Cruz, and educational and environmental programs that benefit the broader community.
This milestone agreement follows Rep. Panetta’s years-long engagement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Office of Management and Budget, including formal requests for continued federal funding and robust engagement throughout the FY25 Work Plan process.
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