sustainability
is making green strides in the City of El Cajon with three major stormwater projects, all funded through grants that the City worked diligently to secure.
These projects, funded entirely by external grants, are part of El Cajon’s broader strategy to enhance the community through sustainable de- velopment. By securing these grants, the City has demonstrated its ability to bring additional resources into the community, ensuring that improve- ments like these do not come at the expense of the general fund. As these projects progress, they showcase El Cajon’s commitment to innovation, environmental steward- ship, and responsible fiscal manage - ment. By integrating green infrastruc- ture into the urban landscape, the City is not only improving the envi- ronment but also setting a example of how to effectively leverage exter - nal funding to benefit the community. The transformation of these streets and parks underscores El Cajon’s dedication to building a better, greener future for all its residents.
Worth a combined $10 million, these projects are being supported by grants awarded from the San Diego River Conservancy and the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG). This strategic approach reflects the City’s com - mitment to leveraging County, State, and Federal funds to enhance El Cajon without burdening local taxpayers. These new projects along El Cajon Boulevard and Main Street are set to trans- form over an acre of asphalt streets and concrete sidewalks into vibrant, plant- ed areas. The result will be tree-lined sidewalks that not only beautify these key corridors but also provide practical benefits like reducing street temperatures, combating the heat island effect, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions from passing traffic. By converting hard surfaces into green spaces, the City is taking concrete steps to improve the environment and quality of life for residents and businesses. Meanwhile, at Wells Park, the City has installed 8,000 square feet of bio-reten- tion basins. These basins play a vital role in managing stormwater by reducing runoff during storms, providing retention, and filtering pollutants. This initiative is yet another example of how the City is utilizing external funds to address environmental challenges while preserving local resources.
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MY EL CAJON • AUTUMN ISSUE 2024
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