Willow Creek takes its name from the native willow trees that grow along its banks. While much of the creek is now buried, these willows remain a living link to the creek’s natural past, supporting habitat and shaping its character. The name Sausalito itself comes from the Spanish for “little willow,” reflecting the deep connection between the city and its willow-lined waterways.
Willow Creek flows beneath Sausalito, hidden in concrete culverts that run from its headwaters above Highway 101 to Richardson Bay. Once a vibrant open stream supporting wetlands, wildlife, and native vegetation, the creek was buried during World War II to accommodate naval shipyards and housing for Liberty Ship workers.
Today, only a small segment near Bridgeway and Nevada Street remains visible. Although mostly underground, Willow Creek continues to flow year-round, connecting neighborhoods to the Bay’s sensitive estuarine environment.
Willow Creek’s hidden waterway tells a story of both human impact and natural resilience.
Current efforts to daylight portions of the creek will restore this natural waterway above ground, creating opportunities for habitat restoration, environmental education, recreation, and community connection. The project will integrate walking paths, outdoor classrooms, native landscaping, and wetlands that support both ecological health and public enjoyment.
Daylighting Willow Creek is a critical step toward restoring Sausalito’s ecological heritage and preserving a vital community asset for generations to come.
For studies, reports, and baseline data on creek conditions and plans visit our document library:
- Draft Basis of Design Report
- Biological Resources Evaluation
- Restoration Plans
- Watershed Map
