Phase 1 work included: removal of relic debris (e.g. concrete and post-and-wire bank revetments), excavation of inset floodplain benches, stabilization of eroding banks using biomechanical methods (e.g. willow cuttings, relocated willow shrubs and large wood), removal of invasive vegetation and revegetation of the site with over 4000 native riparian shrubs and trees. Completion of Phase 1 implementation was recognized with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the mayor of Santa Barbara in April 2019.
Waterways was recently selected to assist with the Phase 2 restoration planning and design, which will include a new pedestrian bridge and trails, as well as ecological restoration of an ephemeral channel.