The San Juan Bay Estuary has begun a project to mitigate erosion on the southern shore of Condado Lagoon, along the wall bordering Jaime Benítez National Park and its Linear Walkway. A $6.7 million grant will fund the studies, design, and permitting for what is envisioned as a hybrid construction project, and FEMA has already identified an additional $5.2 million, subject to approval, for a second phase.
During a tour of the coastline with officials from the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA), the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP), the Municipality of San Juan, and the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resilience (COR3), the Estuary identified areas where the land has subsided due to erosion and drainage problems that cause water accumulation along the Baldorioty de Castro Expressway. As part of the efforts, citizen scientists from the Estuary planted red mangrove trees in the area to help mitigate the impact of the waves.
The project kicked off on May 28th with a meeting with county residents. Over the next few months, boats and scientific equipment will be working in and around the lagoon, assessing the shoreline, sediment movement, sea level, mangroves, and the stormwater system. According to our executive director, Brenda Torres Barreto, nature-based solutions will be implemented that not only mitigate erosion and ponding but also help ensure cleaner water reaches the lagoon. The resulting designs will be presented to the community.
Source: Richard I. Colón Badillo, "San Juan Bay Estuary Begins Million Dollar Project to Mitigate Erosion in the Condado Lagoon," El Nuevo Día, October 1, 2026.
