Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas emphasized at the project's launch: "This should've happened long ago. The Pajaro Valley is a community that never gives up. You all here know how to work hard, but more importantly, you know how to work together. We got the job done together, and that's a testament to this community." His comments reflect not only the urgency surrounding flood risk but also a palpable sense of community resilience and cooperation that characterizes Pajaro.
Denia Escutia, a local resident, shared her concerns saying, "We have another house, and I fear we'll have to leave this one, too." This reveals the emotional turmoil and anxiety that displacement and the threat of flooding cause for the families in Pajaro, highlighting the personal stakes in the infrastructural challenges faced by the community.
Senator John Laird noted the significance of the project, stating, "Pajaro was a special case, and that's why we stepped up for them. Let's pray again that this project gets online before it's too late." His remarks underscore both the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to prevent future disasters in the community.
The article points out that the Pajaro River levee was rated a "moderate" risk of flooding for years, revealing a long-standing neglect of necessary repairs. It's noted that for decades, officials were aware of the problems but deemed the area unworthy of investment due to low property values, showcasing a complex interplay of policy, valuation, and community safety.
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