SLO County is getting millions to upgrade 2 local harbors. What’s planned
San Luis Obispo County will soon receive more than $4 million in federal funding to upgrade and maintain local harbors.
The money will go toward a dredging project in Morro Bay Harbor and the maintenance of Port San Luis’ breakwater, according to a news release from Rep. Salud Carbajal.
“Both Morro Bay Harbor and Port San Luis serve important roles in San Luis Obispo County’s economy and emergency response services,” Carbajal said in the release. “This federal funding will ensure both harbors have the resources they need to maintain key infrastructure so commercial, recreational, and emergency response vessels can continue to navigate safely.”
Morro Bay Harbor will receive just over $4.1 million to complete dredging work. The project will ensure that the harbor remains at reasonable depths in order for boats to safely move through the area, the release said.
“This funding is vital to maintaining safe navigation in Morro Bay Harbor and protecting the commercial, recreational, and emergency response activities that are so important to our local economy and quality of life,” Morro Bay Mayor Carla Wixom said in the release.
According to the release, $23,000 in federal funds will also go toward preserving the Port San Luis breakwater.
Port San Luis Harbor director Will Friedman said the site is a Central Coast hub for recreational and commercial fishing. However, the more than a century-old structure requires regular maintenance to protect the port from strong waves, the release said.
The infrastructure money was secured through 2026 congressional funding and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Work Plan, according to the release.
This story was originally published April 15, 2026 at 10:06 AM.
