City Aims to Transform Jefferson Park Through Community-Driven Stormwater Project

Jefferson Park could become Pasadena’s model for combining critical infrastructure needs with community desires—with the city committed to ensuring the final design reflects community needs and priorities.

The city secured $191,180 in June from LA County’s Safe, Clean Water Program specifically to ensure community voices drive the design of a stormwater capture project that will reshape both the underground infrastructure and surface-level experience of the park. The project, identified as a high priority in the City’s Storm Drain Master Plan, is slated for Fiscal Year 2026.

“This funding is critical to ensuring the Jefferson Park project is not just environmentally effective, but also reflective of community priorities,” said Greg de Vinck, the city’s public works director who submitted the grant application in January. “Our goal is to engage residents throughout the planning process and shape a project that delivers real, lasting benefits to Jefferson Park.”

The vision extends far beyond pipes and drainage. Plans under consideration include community gardens, expanded green spaces, multi-use trails, outdoor classrooms, enhanced tree canopy, and new recreation areas—all while addressing the park’s role in managing stormwater and improving water quality.

The grant will fund development of a comprehensive outreach plan running parallel to an already-funded Feasibility Study. The study will evaluate both the underground stormwater infrastructure requirements and potential above-ground park improvements.

City officials plan multilingual public meetings, school partnerships, stakeholder workshops, community surveys, and pop-up events to gather input. The outreach effort highlights education, accessibility, and inclusive community involvement, with engagement opportunities expected to begin later this summer.

The funding comes from the Safe, Clean Water Program, created when LA County voters approved Measure W in November 2018. The program generates approximately $280 million annually through a parcel tax of 2.5 cents per square foot of impermeable surface area.

De Vinck, who has 28 years of public works experience and previously served six years as San Gabriel’s public works director, assumed his Pasadena position on December 2, 2024.

Residents interested in shaping the project can contact the City’s Stormwater Program Administrator at swadministrator@cityofpasadena.net.