San Diego’s stormwater infrastructure is at a critical juncture. With aging systems, evolving regulations, and a significant funding gap, Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) firms face complex technical and compliance demands on every stormwater project.

This blog takes a deep dive into what’s happening on the ground and what your team needs to deliver successful, compliant solutions.

The State of San Diego’s Stormwater Infrastructure

San Diego’s stormwater system is outdated and overburdened. Chronic underfunding has left the city with a $1.6 billion deficit in stormwater infrastructure, leading to increased flooding, pollution, and public health risks. Catastrophic events in 2024, including severe flooding and property loss, have underscored the urgency of upgrades and proactive maintenance.

Key projects underway or planned include:

  • Rehabilitation of Major Pump Stations: For example, Pump Station D (PS-D), originally built in 1941, is set for a complete overhaul to meet current standards and serve its 500-acre catchment effectively.
  • Stormwater Green Infrastructure Initiatives: The city’s ongoing Stormwater Green Infrastructure program (ACC00001) funds the design and construction of green infrastructure and restoration projects citywide, aiming to remove pollutants before stormwater reaches public waterways.
  • Drainage Best Management Practices (BMPs): Annual allocations support BMPs that address water quality standards and satisfy requirements under the Regional Water Quality Control Board’s Municipal Stormwater NPDES permit.

Technical Demands: Design and Engineering Challenges

Stormwater projects in San Diego must address several technical challenges:

  • Aging Infrastructure: Many facilities, like PS-D, are beyond their intended service life and require complete rehabilitation to meet modern design standards.
  • Hydromodification Management: Projects must protect sediment yield areas and control post-project runoff, as detailed in the city’s BMP Design Manual.
  • Green Infrastructure Integration: Incorporating bioswales, permeable pavements, and other low-impact development (LID) features is essential for pollutant removal and water reuse.

Compliance Demands: Navigating Regulations

Compliance is non-negotiable and highly technical:

  • MS4 Permit Requirements: The city operates under a stringent Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit, which regulates discharges and enforces stormwater quality standards.
  • BMP Design Manual: All projects must adhere to the City of San Diego’s BMP Design Manual, which aligns with the MS4 permit and provides detailed procedures for planning, design, and long-term O&M of stormwater BMPs.
  • Stormwater Quality Management Plans (SWQMPs): Both public and private developments must prepare SWQMPs for city review, ensuring all permanent BMPs are properly designed and maintained.
  • Ongoing Maintenance and Inspection: Property owners are responsible for maintaining stormwater facilities, and the city has authority to inspect and enforce compliance, including issuing notices of violation for deficiencies.

Funding and Project Delivery

San Diego’s stormwater projects are often funded through annual allocations and the city’s Capital Improvements Program (CIP). However, the lack of a dedicated funding source means AEC firms must be prepared for phased, multi-year delivery and potential funding uncertainties.

How Intrivis Supports AEC Firms

At Intrivis, we empower civil and environmental engineers to meet San Diego’s stormwater challenges with effective support services, from designing, drafting to beyond. San Diego’s stormwater landscape is evolving rapidly. With Intrivis as your partner, your team can focus on technical excellence and regulatory compliance-delivering resilient, sustainable infrastructure for the city’s future.

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