More than 60 Community members engaged with City officials during an open house to learn more about the McKinley Park Water Vault, a proposed underground water storage facility.
Seven stations were laid out near the proposed project site. At each station, community members learned more about the specifics of the project including the design, construction schedule, and proposed park enhancements.
“Staff did a great job giving constituents valid information about the nature of this stormwater cache project,” said Councilmember Jeff Harris. “People who visited the stations were able to have their questions answered by the project engineers, manager and consultants. While there is still some opposition to the project, the City is making every earnest effort to address all concerns that constituents have expressed. The vault project will alleviate most of the stormwater issues that are created by large storm events, is affordable, and will fund significant improvements to McKinley Park.”
What will the vault do?
If the project is approved, the vault will be used during storms and will temporarily store wastewater so stormwater can drain efficiently and not flood the streets. East Sacramento is at the top end of the combined sewer system that flows to the Sacramento Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant. When the combined sewer system is at maximum capacity, flooding and outflows occur in East Sacramento from local runoff and sewage. The McKinley Water Vault will reduce flooding and outflows by temporarily storing the wastewater.
As an added benefit, the vault project will also include park enhancements such as improved jogging paths, new restrooms, upgraded picnic areas, shade structures, new landscaping, and the addition of more than 60 trees.
What are the next steps?
The final Environmental Impact Report will be going to City Council on Tuesday, October 9. Residents who were unable to attend or have more questions are encouraged to stop by during the project’s office hours at the Clunie Center’s Reagan Board Room this Thursday, Sept. 27 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. For more information about the project, please visit, the City McKinley Park Vault website.