Committee Hears Plans for Eaton Wash Green Infrastructure Project

The City’s Urban Forestry Advisory Committee on Wednesday received a presentation on the Eaton Wash Stormwater Project.

The infrastructure project is aimed at improving water quality and transforming a vacant open space near Eaton Wash into a public park.

The project, funded through the Safe Clean Water Program (SCWP), would address water quality requirements, while also enhancing the community’s access to nature. The $2.2 million project is currently in the design phase. The City will continue to solicit public outreach as the City moves forward with the initiative.

“The Eaton Wash Stormwater Capture Project is a vital step towards enhancing Pasadena’s water and climate resilience by increasing local water supply through groundwater recharge, improving water quality and assisting the City in meeting critical regulatory compliance requirements,” according to the City’s website. “Additionally, it aims to transform the surrounding area by creating new public park space, providing enhanced recreational opportunities, and fostering a more sustainable and vibrant environment for the local community.”

The proposal calls for water quality improvements to the Eaton Wash channel through the installation of green infrastructure and nature-based solutions, such as vegetated treatment basins.

About six acre-feet of stormwater would be stored to reduce flooding risks. Urban greening efforts would be enhanced with the addition of native vegetation and new shade trees.

The project will take place on city-owned land located across Eaton Wash from Eaton Blanche Park, near notable local landmarks such as Exer Urgent Care, the Boys & Girls Club, Willard Elementary School, and Ability First.

The location is accessible from Del Mar Boulevard, Kinneloa Avenue, and Madre Street.

Historically, there have been several plans aimed at creating park space along the length of Eaton Wash within City boundaries. According to a report in the committee’s agenda.

The first plan was presented in 1932 and proposed creating a series of park spaces and a scenic roadway.

Decades later in 1967, the City’s Director of Parks approved a plan titled “Eaton Canyon Area Development,” which also proposed an interconnected system of parks and open spaces along the Eaton Canyon Drainage.

In 2008-2009, a group of Cal Poly graduate students analyzed the site and created a proposed design for its restoration and reuse.

For more than 20 years, the Earthside Nature Center operated as a public space showcasing California native plants, maintained by local volunteers and service clubs. However, the center closed in 1995, leaving behind only the gateway to the site.