The Californian city of San Jose has unveiled a green stormwater facility, The Riverview Stormwater Garden, which supports regulatory compliance, advances sustainability goals and also offers outdoor space for community use.
The Garden, opened in April, is a 5.2 hectare facility designed to enhance water quality, reduce flooding and provide public recreation opportunities.
The facility captures and treats stormwater runoff from a 344-acre drainage area before it reaches the Guadalupe River and, ultimately, the San Francisco Bay, reducing pollution from rubbish, oil, and pesticides while supporting regional conservation efforts.
The Garden serves as the city of San Jose’s first Regional Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) project, which sets a precedent for future initiatives and achieves multiple goals.
With a population of close to one million, San Jose is Northern California’s largest city and the 13th largest city in the nation.
“This project directly benefits our residents by improving stormwater management, reducing pollutants and providing recreational opportunities,” said City manager Jennifer Maguire.
“It’s a great example of how smart infrastructure can serve both the environment and the community.”
Recognising the importance of “place-making”, the City designed the facility as a community asset, featuring a boardwalk and perimeter walking trail.
New native landscaping supports pollinators and wildlife, while educational signage informs visitors about the benefits of green stormwater infrastructure and how they can contribute to a healthier watershed.
The project also contributes to climate resilience by increasing green space and reducing the urban heat island effect.
Funded through Measure T and additional grants, the US$17.4m project aligns with the City’s Green Stormwater Infrastructure plan and meets regulatory requirements set by the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board.
The Garden project is part of a 20 year plan to transform San Jose though “multi benefit infrastructure which maximises social and environmental benefits while meeting regulatory requirements.”
