Rising sea levels could submerge major Northern California highway, Caltrans report says

California Highway 37, a narrow sliver of highway that serves as a major connector between Interstate 80 and Highway 101, could “become permanently submerged as sea levels rise if modifications are not made,” according to a report from Caltrans, the state transportation agency.

Highway 37 is a popular route used by Sacramento drivers heading to the Napa and Sonoma wine country, as well as coastal retreats such as Dillon Beach, Bodega Bay and Point Reyes.

The 21-mile route lies perilously along the far northern tip of San Pablo Bay and is surrounded by tidal marshes. Rising sea levels could completely submerge the road by 2050, Caltrans said.

“Recognizing that something must be done, all four North Bay counties (Marin, Napa, Sonoma and Solano) have agreed to partner in planning near and long term solutions for the corridor,” Caltrans wrote in a project update. The pavement has been raised in some areas and levees restored.

A virtual public meeting on the road’s future has been scheduled for Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.

This story was originally published January 24, 2022 at 10:42 AM.