The Rheem Creek Flood Risk Reduction Project in Richmond, California, has concluded, providing much-needed relief from flooding for the Rollingwood neighborhood. The project, which wrapped up in October 2024, involved the removal of invasive species and sediment, planting native vegetation, replacing storm drains, and improving creek habitat. Completed with $2.2M in funding from the California Natural Resources Agency, the project has shown immediate benefits, as evidenced during heavy rainfall in November 2024, which did not cause flooding.
Since 2019, the City of Richmond collaborated with organizations like American Rivers and Urban Tilth to address the flooding challenges heightened by climate change. Community engagement was crucial, with local residents actively participating in the design and maintenance stages. Over 500 native plants and 170 trees were planted, with ongoing care and monitoring planned to assess the project’s impact on watershed health.
Overall, the multi-benefit project not only aims to reduce flood risk but also enhances the urban environment, acknowledging the indigenous heritage of the area. The commitment to community involvement and local employment is seen as a model for future watershed restoration efforts.
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