Baldwin Park celebrated the completion of the Calino Avenue Storm Drain and Sewer Improvement Project with a Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

Its landmark project, which was completed on June 27, 2024, addresses long-standing infrastructural challenges that have affected Calino Avenue Residents for three decades.

“This ribbon-cutting marks a step towards a better quality of life for Calino Avenue residents and demonstrates the City’s commitment to making infrastructure improvements that will benefit all Baldwin Park residents,” said Baldwin Park Mayor Emmanuel J. Estrada. “With this project, we’ve addressed long-standing issues of flooding, lack of proper drainage and environmental risks posed by outdated septic tanks.”

It’s entire project included connecting 12 Residences to the City’s freshly constructed sewage main line expansion, reducing hazards associated with outdated septic tanks, such as leaks and overflows.

Additionally, new storm drains, curbs, gutters, walkways, and roadway improvements were installed to enhance neighborhood safety and accessibility.

These improvements comply with California’s environmental regulations, advancing the City’s sustainable practices while improving the quality of life for Calino Avenue Residents.

American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) provided approximately $900,000 in funding to the City, enabling these infrastructure upgrades without depleting the general budget or increasing residents’ tax burden.

Creative use of federal funding allowed the City to address a crucial local need that might otherwise have gone unmet for years.

The project’s completion also highlights the impact of community advocacy.

Residents brought this issue to the council’s attention, as far back as 2015, which played a crucial role in achieving this positive outcome.

Calino Avenue’s transformation from a flood-prone, unpaved road to a modern Boulevard with proper drainage and sewer connections is a significant achievement for the community.

“This project demonstrates that when our community speaks, we listen,” Mayor Estrada added. “It may have taken time, but we delivered on our promise to address these longstanding concerns, improving not just infrastructure but also property values and overall quality of life in this neighborhood.”

It’s success of the Calino Avenue project serves as a model for future infrastructure improvements in Baldwin Park.

City officials remain dedicated to finding financial solutions and addressing residents’ needs to ensure that Baldwin Park prioritizes the well-being and safety of all its inhabitants.

Photo Courtesy of City of Baldwin Park