Valley Water outlines $2B flood protection and dam safety initiatives in Santa Clara County

The Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee of the California State Assembly convened on March 11, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding flood protection and water management in the state. The meeting highlighted significant infrastructure projects and the need for sustainable practices to address California's water challenges.

Valley Water presented its ambitious $2 billion Capital Improvement Program (CIP) aimed at enhancing flood protection in Santa Clara County. This initiative is crucial for safeguarding local businesses and properties in Silicon Valley. Among the projects discussed, the South San Francisco Bay Shoreline Project stands out, with an estimated cost of over $550 million for its first phase. This project not only focuses on flood protection but also aims to restore 2,900 acres of marshland.

Ashley Overhouse, a water policy advisor at Defenders of Wildlife, emphasized the importance of including local community voices in future discussions. She suggested that the committee consider holding additional hearings to explore groundwater recharge opportunities from flood flows, a topic previously addressed in the committee.

Ivy Britton from the Northern California Water Association stressed the need for sustainable floodplain reactivation, which benefits both wildlife and public safety. She also highlighted the importance of funding for the Flood Maintenance Assistance Program (FMAP) and the rehabilitation of aging dams, which are critical for safety and water management.

Kim Bestack from California Trout echoed these sentiments, advocating for the analysis of dam safety solutions, including potential removals of obsolete dams. She noted that many of California's dams are over 50 years old and may no longer serve their intended purposes.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue on these pressing issues, underscoring the committee's commitment to addressing California's complex water management challenges. Future discussions will likely focus on integrating community input and exploring innovative solutions to enhance flood protection and ecosystem restoration.