Swale Grading Program
The Swale Grading Program restores roadside swales within the public right-of-way to improve stormwater flow and reduce localized flooding. Over time, swales can lose their original shape due to sediment buildup, erosion, or prior modifications, which can prevent stormwater from draining as designed. Properly graded swales also support water quality requirements under the City’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit.
What We Do
- Restore swale grades within the public right-of-way
- Remove sediment that restricts flow
- Re-establish proper drainage patterns
What We Don’t Do
- Perform work on private property beyond the right-of-way
- Provide landscaping or aesthetic improvements
- Reconstruct driveways without an approved permit
Swale Evaluation and Scheduling
When a swale concern is reported, City staff will evaluate the location to determine whether regrading is needed within the public right-of-way. If restoration is warranted, the location is added to the swale grading work list and scheduled based on priority, available resources, and system needs.
Due to current demand, swale regrading projects are generally scheduled approximately 18 months after being added to the work list. Timelines may change based on weather, emergencies, or shifting priorities.
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