Project Description

The City of Sausalito's Gate 5 Area Drainage Management Study is a comprehensive effort to address recurrent flooding and future sea level rise risks in the Marinship/Gate 5 Road area. The Gate 5 Area Drainage Management Study aims to find combinations of engineering and ecological solutions to mitigate these risks, protect critical infrastructure, and ensure long-term resilience for residents, businesses, and the waterfront environment. The study will consist of a vulnerability assessment to fully understand land subsidence in the area, engage directly with Gate 5 Area interested parties, and create conceptual designs for both short-term and long-term improvement. The study goals include: reducing current and future flood risks and impacts, developing actionable, resilient drainage solutions, designing a project within regulatory requirements and permitting standards, enhancing public access, and supporting infrastructure reliability and community safety.

Project Area

The focus is on the Gate 5 Road corridor in Sausalito, including adjacent waterfront zones and drainage systems into Harbor Drive. This area is a mix of industrial, commercial, and ecological spaces that are essential to the City’s economy and character. 

Project Funding

In 2024, the City secured funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration to support planning a new flood mitigation initiative in the Gate 5 Road, Harbor Drive area. This grant funds the development of preliminary concept plans for the area and may extend to include the Marinship Park.

Project Schedule 

In late 2025 City Council authorized a Professional Services Agreement with an international engineering and design firm, WSP. Since formally kicking off the project in 2025, the project is scheduled to finish in July, 2026 with community engagement sessions and updates to City Council scheduled throughout the project timeline. 

Project Documents

• 2002 Marinship Flood Study 
• 2011 Conceptual Drainage Study 
• 2024 City Council Acceptance of the U.S. Economic Development Administration Grant Funds
• 2025 City Council Authorization of a Professional Services Agreement with WSP

Project Contact

The Department of Public Works is the main contact for the Gate 5 Area Drainage Management Study. Sara Khorshidifard is the Public Works Project Manager that is leading this project. For project questions please contact Sara at skhorshidifard@sausalito.gov.