The City of San Diego and Groundwork San Diego–Chollas Creek today announced the start of construction on the Federal Blvd. Creek Dechannelization and Restoration Project, an $11 million effort funded by the California Natural Resources Agency, California Wildlife Conservation Board and California Department of Water Resources. 

The project will restore 1,350 linear feet of Chollas Creek by replacing a 50-foot-wide concrete channel with a naturalized, free-flowing creek. Improvements include the restoration of 2.4 acres of habitat, planting of 300 new trees, and treatment of 6.3 acre-feet of urban runoff each year. The project will also improve water quality, reduce flood risk and urban heat, enhance air quality, and create healthier spaces for surrounding neighborhoods. 

“Chollas Creek is one of San Diego’s most important natural resources, and this project demonstrates how we can restore our environment while improving quality of life for residents,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “For generations, communities along the Chollas Creek watershed have advocated for cleaner waterways, more green space, and healthier neighborhoods. By transforming a concrete channel into a natural creek, we are reducing flood risk, improving water quality, expanding access to nature, and creating a more resilient future for City Heights and surrounding communities. This project reflects our Blue-Green Vision and our commitment to investing in neighborhoods that have too often been overlooked.” 

Phase II of the project will create a climate resilient pocket park and a multiuse pedestrian and bicycle trail, connecting residents to Sunshine Berardini Field Park and expanding mobility, recreational opportunities, and wildlife habitat throughout the watershed. The project is part of a broader effort to restore the Chollas Creek watershed while strengthening neighborhood resilience, improving public health and expanding access to green space. 

“Chollas Creek is a vital natural resource for the surrounding communities, and this project demonstrates what is possible when we invest in neighborhoods that have too often been overlooked.” said Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera, who represents District 9. “By restoring the creek, expanding access to green space, and improving climate resilience, we are creating healthier, safer, and more connected communities.” 

“This restoration project marks a major step forward in modernizing our stormwater infrastructure,” said Stormwater Department Director Todd Snyder. “By transforming a concrete channel into a thriving natural creek, we’re not only reducing flood risks and improving water quality, but also enhancing habitat and green space for the community.” 

The project is led by Groundwork San Diego in partnership with Civic Communities and the City of San Diego Stormwater Department. This project is funded through multiple state grants from the California Department of Water Resources, California Wildlife Conservation Board, and California Natural Resources Agency.