California Construction News staff writer
San José marked a major milestone with the grand opening of the Riverview Stormwater Garden, the first regional green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) facility in Santa Clara County.
The $17.4 million project is designed to improve water quality, reduce flooding, and offer recreational opportunities for residents, setting a new standard for sustainable urban development and stormwater management.
The construction contract was awarded to Sierra Mountain Construction which specializes in civil infrastructure projects and has experience with stormwater management systems.
Work included retrofitting an existing flood control basin to provide regional stormwater treatment. The scope included installing a sediment forebay, bioretention basin, perimeter trail, boardwalk viewing platform, and other recreational amenities.
“Today marks a significant step in San José’s commitment to sustainable urban development,” said Mayor Matt Mahan. “With this facility, we are addressing stormwater runoff on a large scale—capturing runoff from an area larger than 260 football fields.
“This is the type of proactive infrastructure we need to protect our waterways and ensure a cleaner, healthier Bay for future generations.”
The 5.2-acre facility, located in North San José, plays a critical role in capturing and treating stormwater runoff from a 344-acre drainage area, which includes more than 260 football fields’ worth of urban land. By intercepting polluted runoff before it reaches the Guadalupe River and ultimately flows into San Francisco Bay, the Riverview Stormwater Garden helps filter out pollutants such as trash, oil, and pesticides. This initiative not only enhances local water quality but also supports regional conservation efforts.
The Riverview Stormwater Garden is a piece of the Green Stormwater Infrastructure Plan and is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to meet regulatory requirements set by the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board. The project was funded through Measure T and additional grants, and it sets a strong precedent for future green stormwater initiatives across the county.
In addition to environmental benefits, the site enhances public spaces with a focus on outdoor recreation.
A boardwalk and a perimeter walking trail allow residents to use the space and native landscaping supports pollinators and local wildlife. Educational signage throughout the facility provides valuable information on the benefits of green stormwater infrastructure and encourages community involvement in watershed health.
“This project directly benefits our residents by improving stormwater management, reducing pollutants, and providing opportunities for outdoor recreation,” said City Manager Jennifer Maguire. “It’s a great example of how smart infrastructure can serve both the environment and the community.”
The design also increases green space and helping to mitigate the urban heat island effect, a common challenge in densely developed areas. The Riverview Stormwater Garden is a demonstration of San José’s commitment to sustainable stormwater management practices and environmental stewardship.
As the first of its kind in the region, the Riverview Stormwater Garden stands as a model for future green infrastructure projects in the Bay Area and beyond. The facility’s combination of environmental, recreational, and educational benefits highlights the potential for urban landscapes to serve as both functional infrastructure and community assets.
