City Secures $8.5 Million Caltrans Grant for Sierra Madre Boulevard Median Project

City officials have secured $8.5 million in California Department of Transportation funding for the Sierra Madre Boulevard Median Enhancement Project, a major Easo Pasadena initiative designed to improve stormwater quality in the Eaton Wash and Rio Hondo River while implementing urban greening measures to combat climate change impacts.

Acting Public Works Director Kris Markarian announced the cooperative agreement with the California Department of Transportation for the project, which will help meet Total Maximum Daily Load and Waste Load Allocation requirements for the Los Angeles River watershed.

The project features a modern design concept incorporating lush landscaping, native plants, and decorative elements to create a welcoming green space that promotes both aesthetic appeal and sustainability along the heavily urbanized corridor.

The initiative will capture and manage both dry weather flows and stormwater runoff, eliminating dry-weather pollutants including trash, sediments, heavy metals and bacteria. The project will also infiltrate stormwater from adjacent pavement surfaces, leading to cleaner water, healthier ecosystems, and direct environmental benefits.

Public Works staff has conducted extensive community outreach, hosting four meetings in coordination with Council District 4, including a recent event at Victory Park on March 21 attended by District 4 Councilmember Gene Masuda. These sessions progressively refined the project scope, with stakeholder input directly shaping the median’s final aesthetic design.

Currently at 90% completion, the design phase is being funded through Los Angeles County’s Safe, Clean Water Program – Local Return funds. The design is expected to be finalized in March 2025, with construction scheduled to begin in summer 2025.

The partnership between the City and the California Department of Transportation aims to improve water quality in the Los Angeles River watershed while fulfilling key regulatory requirements, ensuring both agencies can make a positive environmental impact.