City of San Diego work crews recently completed a vital infrastructure improvement project on Willow Street in Loma Portal to help prevent flooding and improve drainage reliability and overall street conditions in the area.  

The Willow Street Project focused on replacing an aging and deteriorated section of stormwater pipes to ensure long-term resilience during rainstorms. Crews removed corroded metal pipes and installed new reinforced concrete pipes designed to handle runoff more effectively.  

In addition to pipe replacement, the project included the installation of new drain inlets to improve water capture and help reduce the risk of surface flooding. Employees with the Stormwater Department also added new access points to support ongoing system maintenance and monitoring. 

“The improvements on Willow Street are part of our ongoing commitment to modernize San Diego’s stormwater system and maintain safe, reliable drainage infrastructure in our communities,” said Stormwater Director Todd Snyder. “Much of the City’s stormwater infrastructure is hidden from view but is crucial to preventing floods and maintaining water quality.” 

The upgrades didn’t stop below ground. The City also took the opportunity to improve surface infrastructure. Crews installed ADA-compliant curb ramps, repaired damaged sidewalks and completed street resurfacing to restore the roadway following underground work.  

The Stormwater Department has made significant progress in recent years to secure federal and state funding through grants and low-interest loans. However, funding remains the most significant impediment to modernizing more of the stormwater system for future generations of San Diegans.  

The funding challenge is due to a variety of factors, including the lack of a major revenue source for stormwater services or improvement projects like pipe replacement. Learn more about stormwater infrastructure and the funding challenges at thinkblue.org.