Santa Cruz Wharf Secures $3.15M in Federal Funds for Rehabilitation

The historic wharf was damaged by powerful winter storms in 2024.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The historic Santa Cruz Wharf, which was damaged by powerful winter storms in 2024 with up to 300 feet of the structure collapsing, will receive $3.15 million in federal funds for rehabilitation. U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta, D-Santa Cruz, announced the funding, stating that repairing and bolstering the wharf is crucial for the local culture, livelihoods, and public safety, as one in 10 jobs in Santa Cruz is generated by the wharf.

Why it matters

The Santa Cruz Wharf is a crucial economic driver for the local community, generating one in 10 jobs in the city. The federal funding will help restore and strengthen the wharf, which was severely damaged by recent winter storms, ensuring the continued viability of this important local landmark and economic hub.

The details

The powerful winter storms in 2024 caused extensive damage to the Santa Cruz Wharf, with up to 300 feet of the structure collapsing and destroying a restaurant, public restrooms, and construction equipment. The $3.15 million in federal funds secured by U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta will be used to rehabilitate and bolster the historic wharf, which is crucial for the local culture, livelihoods, and public safety.

  • The Santa Cruz Wharf was damaged by powerful winter storms in 2024.

The players

Jimmy Panetta

A U.S. Representative from California's 20th congressional district, which includes Santa Cruz.

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What they’re saying

“Repairing and bolstering the Santa Cruz Wharf is crucial for our local culture, livelihoods, and public safety.”

— Jimmy Panetta, U.S. Representative (Press Release)

What’s next

The federal funding will be used to begin the rehabilitation and restoration work on the Santa Cruz Wharf, with the goal of completing the project and reopening the wharf to the public as soon as possible.

The takeaway

The federal funding for the Santa Cruz Wharf rehabilitation project is a critical investment in the local economy and community, ensuring the continued viability of this historic landmark and economic driver for the city.