Most of the City's rivers and streams do not meet federal clean water standards. Over time, erosion and sediment buildup change their shape. Restoration projects aim to protect and improve water quality, making ecosystems healthier. Restoring natural buffers along streams reduces pollution runoff, leading to cleaner water. As habitats stabilize, maintenance needs decrease. This restoration also helps stormwater systems by reducing floods and property damage.
Click the project links below for complete descriptions and timeline.
One project is currently in the construction phase
Maple Canyon Restoration Phase 1 & Phase 2 – Project will construct new storm drain systems upstream and downstream of the canyon to stabilize and restore the canyon floor. Biofiltration basins, detention basin, and permeable pavement will be constructed both within and outside of the public ROW to alleviate downstream flooding and increase water quality.
Projects currently in the preliminary engineering or design phase
Los Peñasquitos Restoration Phase 1 – Project will restore the historical salt marsh to meet TMDL goals, restore salt marsh vegetation, reduce coarse sediment, and trash loading to the lagoon, and reduce flood inundation levels in business parks.
Jamacha Drainage Channel Upgrade – Project will restore conveyance capacity of the drainage channel necessary for mitigation and maintenance of the earthen channel.
Carmel Country Road Low Flow Channel – Project constructs an earthen low flow channel that spans about 1900 linear feet. The project will also lower the height of the existing gabion structure at the downstream end of the channel. This design will help regulate the water flow and prevent flooding at the bike path.
Upper Auburn Creek Revitalization (S22008) – Project will alleviate flooding of adjacent residential structures, roads, and public parks and reduce erosion by increasing creek conveyance capacity. A new biofiltration basin will be constructed to help with compliance of Chollas Creek TMDL requirements.
Chollas Creek Restoration at 54th Street and Euclid Avenue – Project will restore and enhance Chollas Creek Channel and stabilize the stream bank to reduce erosive flows. A new biofiltration basin will be constructed to the north of the channel for water quality measures.
Beta St Channel and Storm Drain Improvement – The project consists of adding a box culvert system, channel widening, storm drain improvements, removing some portions of the existing park along the channel, adding a new trail, and reconstructing the park within the remaining space available after the channel widening.