Pasadena Residents to See Increased Catch Basin Cleaning in Coming Weeks

A technician kneeling beside an open catch basin manhole (Photo – City of Pasadena)

Pasadena residents may see crews working in neighborhoods throughout the city in the coming weeks as the Department of Public Works ramps up its catch basin cleaning program, an essential, routine effort to protect local waterways and reduce flooding during rain events.

By News Desk

Pasadena Public Works Director Greg de Vinck said the work, performed by a City contractor, involves removing trash, debris, and improperly discarded items from storm drain catch basins. These clean-outs help ensure stormwater can move freely through the system, preventing backups that can cause localized flooding.

Routine maintenance is also a key requirement of Pasadena’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (“MS4”) Permit, which mandates regular cleaning to comply with state and federal stormwater regulations. By clearing pollutants such as sediment, trash, and bulky debris, the City helps prevent contaminants from traveling through the storm drain network and entering creeks, rivers, and downstream waterways.

During a recent clean-out, a technician was photographed kneeling beside an open catch basin manhole, surrounded by an electric keyboard, a metal folding chair, and six bags of trash.

City officials emphasized that improper disposal of trash and bulky items into streets or storm drains can obstruct water flow and contribute to pollution. Residents and businesses are encouraged to use appropriate refuse, recycling, and bulky-item pickup services to support the City’s stormwater protection efforts.

Although the maintenance work may be visible in neighborhoods, officials note that it is part of a long-term strategy to safeguard public safety, protect the environment, and maintain the performance of Pasadena’s stormwater infrastructure.

For more information about stormwater programs or maintenance activities, residents can visit the City’s Stormwater website or contact the City’s Stormwater Program Administrator at SWAdministrator@cityofpasadena.net.