The Via Real Stormwater Project is a flood mitigation project located between Bailard Avenue and Carpinteria Creek.
Project components included new storm drain infrastructure along Poplar Street and upgrades to existing facilities along Via Real to mitigate flood hazards and improve water quality, while also providing some groundwater recharge. The open channel at the end of Poplar Street was removed and replaced with a bioretention basin, which has been planted with a California native plant palate. A new storm drain has been installed along Poplar Street and connects to the existing drainage facilities along Via Real. A series of bioswales designed to improve both water quality and aesthetics were constructed along the new concrete sidewalk.
Funding
The Via Real Stormwater Project is funded through a variety of sources, including a federal grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and a state grant from the California Natural Resources Agency’s Urban Flood Protection Grant Program, as well as local Storm Drain Development Impact Fees.
Project Recognition
On August 6, the Via Real Stormwater Project received an Outstanding Flood Management Project Award from the American Society of Civil Engineers in recognition of its innovative approach to combining traditional stormwater drainage improvements with green infrastructure to reduce flood risk, improve stormwater quality, and enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the surrounding neighborhood.
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