The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) must develop a long-term plan for the Corridor from the Eureka Slough Bridges to 11th Street in Arcata. This plan considers and aims to minimize impacts to wetlands, coastal waters, or estuaries and construction that also aims to minimize impacts or alterations natural shoreline processes. This plan addresses the increasing risk posed by climate change and associated coastal hazards. Without proactive planning, the Corridor and associated infrastructure will remain vulnerable to coastal hazard impacts that could impact public safety, mobility, connectivity, the economy, and the long-term viability of the transportation system.

The CAIP identifies conceptual adaptation strategies—protect, accommodate, retreat, and hybrid approaches—to address SLR and other coastal hazards along the Corridor. The primary focus of this adaptation plan is along the current US 101 alignment and construction along Old Arcata Road is not presently feasible.