California cities and counties have long battled the challenges posed by rainfall, particularly when heavy rains overwhelm stormwater management systems. The conventional approach — diverting water into the ocean through systems of storm drains — forces beach closures and diverts polluted runoff into the ocean. However, in our drought-prone state, we’re facing a critical need for innovative solutions to enhance water resiliency. We must upgrade stormwater infrastructure to improve water quality and to benefit from the millions of gallons washing out to sea.
However, there’s a glaring issue: a substantial gap in infrastructure funding. Recent reports revealed annual funding gaps in the hundreds of millions, expected to grow in the coming years. Given the region’s susceptibility to storm damage, waiting for upgraded infrastructure is not an option. The San Diego region’s stormwater management infrastructure requires a significant overhaul – today – to ensure the safety of our region. Modernizing pump stations, updating drainage systems, revitalizing waterways, and maintaining levees are all vital components of enhancing our stormwater management techniques. These improvements will better protect our communities from storm-related damages while replenishing our water supply.
Innovative solutions for managing water resources also strengthen the region’s progress toward sustainability goals. In 2020, San Diego missed out on over 130 billion gallons of water, which could have met the region’s needs for nearly two years. Investments bolstering our region’s capacity to capture and clean stormwater will prepare San Diego for future extreme weather events, reducing our dependence on imported water and protecting against drought. Furthermore, new water management systems protect our roads and bridges. Allocating funding for projects that preserve road integrity, prevent potholes, and effectively control erosion will safer commutes, reduce traffic, and mitigate the pollution created by clogged highways.
Beyond the human impact of deteriorating infrastructure, San Diego’s aging storm drainage system reduces local offshore water quality, endangering marine life. We send pollution straight into our waterways through a system of poorly maintained drains. In the past year, San Diego’s beaches have been closed several times; however, we can do better by investing dollars into preserving our coastal assets.
Stormwater has traditionally been viewed as a nuisance. As our region implements a more innovative approach to resource management, we are starting to see its benefits. But to utilize stormwater to its full potential and protect our communities and marine life, we must expedite funding in the immediate future. It’s time we rebuild San Diego.
Learn more at rebuildsocal.org.
