City Seeking Community Input on Improvements to the Arroyo Seco

The city will hold the first-of-three community meetings from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 26, at La Casita Del Arroyo, 177 S. Arroyo Blvd, to discuss the Arroyo Seco Water Reuse Project and receive input on improvements from local residents.

The Cities of Pasadena and South Pasadena have partnered to improve water quality in the Lower Arroyo Seco Channel, as well as restore natural river habitat and improve public access. Pasadena and South Pasadena residents are encouraged to attend upcoming community meetings to learn about The second and third community meetings will update residents on the project as it’s developed. Meeting details will be posted to the project website.

“We are excited to engage with community members as we move forward with improvements to ensure water flowing into the Arroyo Seco Channel is clean and safe, said Kris Markarian, an engineer with the city. “Complying with water quality standards is vital to our community and helps maintain healthy habitat for the many ecosystems along the Arroyo Seco.”

 Participants will receive an overview of the project, its purpose and timeline at the meeting.

The Arroyo Seco Water Reuse Project focuses on two specific locations:

• West of San Rafael Avenue/Laguna Road intersection and south of where the creeks converge into the channel in Pasadena

• South of San Pascual Avenue and adjacent to Arroyo Park in South Pasadena

The project is funded by state and local grants. The Cities of Pasadena and South Pasadena received a $3.5 million Urban Counties Per Capita Grant from the California Department of Parks and Recreation, under a subprogram specifically designated for the Arroyo Seco.

The Arroyo Seco Water Reuse Project is also funded by $4.7 million from the Los Angeles County’s Safe Clean Water Program (Measure W). When completed, the project will achieve the program’s objectives, which include:

• Improving and protecting water quality;

• Capturing rain and stormwater to prepare for future drought; and

• Protecting public health and marine life by reducing pollution, trash, toxins and plastics from entering Los Angeles County waterways, bays and beaches.

The Arroyo Seco Water Reuse Project is expected to be completed by spring 2024.