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Reimagining Urban Water: MacArthur Park Lake Stormwater Capture Facility

Reimagining Urban Water: MacArthur Park Lake Stormwater Capture Facility

The Challenge

In the heart of Los Angeles, where concrete meets green space, the City of Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation faced a complex task: designing an effective regional stormwater capture facility at MacArthur Park Lake that would meet strict performance requirements.


Our Approach

This project isn't just about one park or one lake. It's a blueprint for how we can reimagine urban water management, turning existing features into multifunctional assets that benefit both the environment and the community. By integrating advanced modeling with practical design, we're setting a new standard for urban stormwater capture.


Here's how we're transforming MacArthur Park Lake:


  1. Innovative Configuration: We developed the most effective stormwater capture configuration for the site, balancing design storm hydrologic targets with long-term water quality considerations. It's not just about managing water; it's about optimizing every drop.

  2. Decision Support Modeling: Our engineers applied advanced decision support modeling to identify the optimal BMP configuration. 

  3. Balanced Design: Our approach incorporates both immediate hydrologic targets and long-term water quality goals. We're not just solving today's problems; we're planning for a sustainable future.

  4. Funding Unlocked: By meeting the Safe, Clean Water Program's performance requirements, our design unlocked additional funding opportunities for the City. 

  5. An Optimized System: Includes a pumped diversion pipe from the 54-inch City of Los Angeles storm drain, a pre-treatment system, a pump lift station, and integration with the existing park lake for storage.

  6. Ongoing Support: Craftwater continues to support the City with the design development of the final civil and hydraulic design. Our commitment extends beyond initial planning to ensure the project's success at every stage.


Key Takeaways

  • Innovative stormwater capture: Developing the most effective configuration for the site

  • Data-driven design: Using decision support modeling to optimize BMP configuration

  • Balanced approach: Incorporating both short-term targets and long-term quality considerations

  • Funding success: Meeting performance requirements to secure additional program funding

  • Continuous improvement: Providing ongoing support for final civil and hydraulic design

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