Los Angeles County is progressing with the construction of the Rory M. Shaw Wetlands and the Sun Valley Upper Storm Drain Projects. These developments are aimed at mitigating flood risks, reducing stormwater pollution, conserving water, enhancing recreational amenities, and increasing wildlife habitat according to an update from the Los Angeles County Flood Control District (LACFCD).
The Rory M. Shaw Wetlands Park, an engineered constructed wetlands park, comprises a 21-acre detention pond, a 10-acre wetland, and a 15-acre recreational open space, to significantly play a part in flood risk and water management in the region. The project is presently in its excavation and rough grading construction stage, constituting Phase 2 according to the update.
Simultaneously, the Sun Valley Upper Storm Drain Project – a 4.75-mile long storm drain – is being constructed to capture stormwater from the upper 929 acres of the watershed. This water would be conveyed at the Rory M. Shaw Wetlands for treatment, boosting both water quality and conservation. Construction for the Drain Project commenced in July 2021, with the first phase field accepted in August 2023 as per LA County reports.
The connectivity and sync in the execution timelines of these two projects have been clear. With the delivery of the various stages of the Sun Valley Upper Storm Drain Project, decorous developments such as removal of temporary striping ads installation of permanent signage and striping were accomplished by August 2023.
