MacArthur Lake Stormwater Capture Project

The proposed project, led by the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works (DPW) Bureau of Sanitation and Environment (LASAN) in partnership with the DPW Bureau of Engineering (BOE) and the Department of Recreation and Parks (RAP), would implement a regional multi-benefit stormwater project in MacArthur Park as part of the region’s efforts under Los Angeles County’s Safe Clean Water Program (SCWP) to meet water quality total maximum daily load (TMDL) limits for the Ballona Creek watershed and the current National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. The proposed project would divert stormwater and dry weather flows from the existing underground storm drain system, treat the water, and discharge it into MacArthur Lake for storage or return it to the storm drain system. Some of the water that is stored in the lake would subsequently be discharged to the sanitary sewer system to make room for additional storage. This process would reduce the amount of stormwater and dry weather flows, and their associated pollutant loads, that directly enter Ballona Creek, the Ballona Creek wetlands, and, ultimately, Santa Monica Bay. The diversion of water from the storm drain system into MacArthur Lake would decrease the amount of potable water that is used to maintain the lake level (i.e., lake refill). Additionally, the proposed project would enhance the park by creating a water feature and providing interpretive/educational signage about stormwater management.