Princeton Shoreline Wins Full Federal Funding as Harbor District Tackles Bacteria, Tenants and Staffing

The San Mateo County Harbor District board covered substantial ground at its June 17 meeting, securing confirmation that the Army Corps of Engineers will fully fund the long-sought Princeton Shoreline erosion project — a milestone that removes the biggest obstacle to protecting coastside infrastructure. Commissioners also navigated rising legal costs from past tenant disputes, a new state water quality mandate at Oyster Point, and leadership changes in the administrative office.

• Army Corps delivers full funding for Princeton Shoreline coastal erosion project; Congressman Lucardo asked to send thank-you letter to Corps headquarters

• Legal fees spike from former tenant row disputes, prompting commissioner to pull bills and claims for public scrutiny

• Water Board adopts pre-TMDL bacteria plan targeting Oyster Point beach; stormwater runoff from outside the harbor is the central challenge

• 2.2% CPI-based salary increase approved unanimously for all district employees except the General Manager

• Rochelle Levina appointed interim Director of Administrative Services, filling vacancy left by Julia Van Hoff's retirement

• Six groups tour Pillar Point Harbor commercial parcels ahead of RFP deadline; commissioners push for stronger lease protections

Why it matters: Coastal erosion along the Princeton shoreline has threatened harbor infrastructure for years. Securing full federal funding through the Army Corps of Engineers eliminates the project's largest financial barrier.