City of Pasadena Seeks Community Input on Brookside Park Stormwater Project

Brookside Park preliminary concept (Photo – City of Pasadena)

The City of Pasadena is calling on residents to help shape the future of a major stormwater improvement project at Brookside Park. The Brookside Park Stormwater Capture Project aims to address critical water quality concerns while revitalizing Parking Lot I, located just south of the Rose Bowl.

By News Desk

As part of the planning process, Pasadena residents are encouraged to complete a community survey by Friday, August 1, to help guide the design of the project’s above-ground features.

The initiative is designed to improve water quality in both the Arroyo Seco and the Los Angeles River, while also boosting the city’s water supply by recharging the Raymond Basin. The site will incorporate a dual system: underground green infrastructure for stormwater treatment, and nature-based, above-ground solutions to reduce surface pollution.

Key components of the project include diverting water from the historic Seco Street Drain through underground pre-treatment units and an 11-acre-foot infiltration gallery. Above ground, proposed enhancements such as bioretention cells, vegetated bioswales, and shade trees will help naturally filter runoff.

Once completed, the system will capture and treat stormwater and dry-weather runoff from over 1,100 acres of Pasadena. A portion of the treated water will be returned to the Arroyo Seco Channel to support ecosystem health and long-term water quality goals.

In addition to its environmental benefits, the project offers an opportunity to improve public space by redesigning Parking Lot I. Input from local stakeholders, park visitors, and residents will play a key role in shaping the final design.

The project is being led by Pasadena’s Department of Public Works and is funded through Los Angeles County’s Safe, Clean Water Program (Measure W). The initial feasibility study was supported by the City’s Measure W Local Return funds.

To participate in the community survey, visit: bit.ly/BrooksideParkProject or bit.ly/BrooksideParkSurvey.