San Jose officials confirm funding for Upper Guadalupe flood protection project remains intact

In a significant joint meeting on August 19, 2025, the San Jose City Council and the Santa Clara Valley Water District Board reaffirmed their commitment to critical flood protection projects, ensuring that funding remains intact for initiatives like the San Francisco Creek project and the Upper Guadalupe flood protection project.

During the meeting, officials clarified that no projects have been defunded, addressing concerns about the status of various flood control efforts. They emphasized that funding has been shifted to prioritize shovel-ready projects, which are essential for maintaining public safety and infrastructure integrity. The Upper Penitencia flood protection project was highlighted as a potential priority for San Jose, with officials open to discussions about adjusting project timelines based on community needs.

The meeting also featured insights from the Army Corps of Engineers, confirming that the projects are progressing as planned. Officials noted the challenges of exploring smaller, quicker alternatives due to potential flooding risks, reinforcing the necessity of the larger projects.

Council member Kamay moved to accept the status report, which passed unanimously, signaling strong support for ongoing flood protection efforts. The meeting underscored the collaborative approach between local government and federal agencies, as well as the importance of these projects in safeguarding the community against flooding.

As the city continues to navigate these critical infrastructure projects, the commitment to flood protection remains a top priority, with officials poised to adapt plans as necessary to meet the evolving needs of San Jose residents.