Santa Monica's Seismic Retrofit Program Enhancing Earthquake Preparedness

The Seismic Retrofit Program in Southern California is essential for improving the safety of older buildings that may be vulnerable to earthquake damage, which poses threats to lives and economic stability. Santa Monica has identified over 2,000 commercial and multi-family residential structures that require potential retrofitting under the Seismic Retrofit Ordinance adopted in 2017. To aid in these efforts, the City has secured a federal grant from FEMA to support the retrofitting of soft-story buildings. The application process for this grant is set to commence in December 2022, with eligible property owners receiving notifications via mail and email. Property owners can utilize a searchable map and the city's open data site to check if their buildings are on the compliance list.

The program highlights the city’s commitment to disaster preparedness and the importance of structural safety. Furthermore, property owners are encouraged to conduct structural analyses to ensure compliance with safety standards. By participating in the Seismic Retrofit Program, the community can bolster its resilience against earthquake risks and safeguard its residents.