San Anselmo seeks FEMA review to remove downtown foot bridge seen as flood risk

San Anselmo has initiated a FEMA review to explore the removal of Building Bridge 2, a footbridge impeding the flow of San Anselmo Creek and increasing flood risks for upstream properties. This effort is part of the larger Reimagine Creek Park Project, which seeks to enhance the downtown area while addressing flooding concerns. FEMA's consultation will help determine necessary changes to flood hazard boundaries and insurance requirements, with removal expected in 2026. Current projections show that the bridge's removal will eliminate 20 upstream properties from the FEMA floodplain; however, 58 downstream properties may face increased flood elevation during a 100-year storm event. The district is assessing whether additional flood mitigation measures are needed for nine downstream properties before the project proceeds.

This initiative is part three of the San Anselmo Flood Risk Reduction Project, which has already seen the construction of a flood storage basin and the removal of nearby buildings. The community has previously utilized the bridge area for outdoor dining during the pandemic, highlighting its potential as a public space. The project aims to restore the creek's natural flow while fostering a vibrant downtown commons area.