Las Vistas Stormwater Park

INFRASTRUCTURE THAT SOLVES MORE THAN ONE PROBLEM

The project reimagined the Sunland Vista Wash as a series of integrated stormwater detention and infiltration basins designed to slow, capture, and filter runoff. Improvements included:

Eight stormwater detention cells for flood mitigation
Over 1,800 cubic yards of channel excavation and berm construction
Installation of curb inlets, scuppers, and drainage structures
ADA-accessible decomposed granite pathways connecting neighborhoods, schools, and parks
Rock stabilization, riprap installation, and erosion control measures
Reclaimed water irrigation system supporting long-term landscape establishment

These elements work together to increase channel capacity, improve water quality, and reduce downstream impacts while maintaining long-term system durability.

COMMUNITY-DRIVEN DESIGN

This project was shaped directly by community input. Residents identified a lack of safe walking routes, shade, and gathering spaces—especially for children traveling between nearby schools. In response, the design prioritized:

An 8-foot-wide pedestrian pathway for safe, off-street travel
Over 80 shade trees to reduce urban heat and improve comfort
Multiple gathering nodes with seating, picnic areas, and interpretive signage
A “Little Free Library” to support neighborhood engagement and student access

The result is infrastructure that functions as both a flood control system and a community asset—improving safety, accessibility, and daily usability.

OVERCOMING SITE & CONSTRUCTION CHALLENGES

Working within an active residential neighborhood created unique constraints, including pedestrian safety, traffic coordination, and maintaining access throughout construction. KE&G implemented a comprehensive traffic control and safety plan, including signage, barricades, and secure work zones to protect both crews and the public.

The team also navigated design adjustments and utility coordination in real time, including:

Modifying scupper designs to improve pedestrian usability
Coordinating with City of Tucson transportation standards for drainage structures
Adapting irrigation systems to reclaimed water sources by installing pressure regulation solutions
Expanding riprap protection after storm events revealed areas of potential erosion

These field-driven adjustments ensured long-term performance without delaying project delivery.

INNOVAITON, EFFICIENCY, & SUSTAINABILITY

KE&G maximized efficiency and sustainability through several key approaches:

Reusing up to 75% of excavated material onsite to build berms and reduce hauling costs
Utilizing decomposed granite pathways as a cooler, permeable alternative to concrete
Installing riprap in place of concrete where appropriate to reduce environmental impact
Supporting native plant establishment through hydroseeding and locally sourced vegetation

More than 500 native plants representing 26 species were installed, supporting pollinators, improving infiltration, and restoring ecological balance across the site.

SAFETY & EXECUTION

Safety remained a priority throughout construction, particularly due to the proximity to schools and residential traffic. KE&G maintained strict safety protocols, including:

Weekly safety meetings and proactive planning
Secured equipment and trench protection
Clear site delineation to prevent public access
Coordination with local agencies to improve surrounding road conditions

This approach ensured a safe work environment while maintaining trust with the surrounding community.

LASITN COMMUNITY & ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Las Vistas Stormwater Park delivers long-term value beyond flood control. The project:

Creates safe pedestrian connections between neighborhoods and schools
Reduces urban heat through shaded pathways
Improves stormwater quality and groundwater recharge
Restores native habitat and supports biodiversity
Establishes a replicable model for green infrastructure in urban environments

This project demonstrates KE&G’s ability to deliver infrastructure that performs technically while strengthening the communities it serves.