The Sterling Natural Resource Center (SNRC) recently secured $1.49 million in funding from the California Natural Resources Agency for the development of a 6-acre environmentally friendly demonstration garden that will also serve as new community outdoor space. Designed to create a welcoming environment, the garden will include a colorful display of water-wise plants and tree species, walking trails, water features, and a picnic area.
"Beyond creating a sustainable source of water, the Sterling Natural Resource Center is committed to improving the community's quality of life by connecting with the daily lives' of residents," said Chris Carrillo, East Valley Water District Chairman. "The demonstration garden will inspire neighborhood pride and become a community hub where residents gather to engage with SNRC services and programs.'
East Valley Water District envisions hosting community events such as workshops, farmers markets, movie nights, concerts and educational programs at the garden given its large capacity. It will be a safe place close to home where the residents can enjoy the outdoors, connect with one another, breath in the benefits of cleaner air, and take part in the environment of the SNRC.
"Receiving this grant is a significant milestone that supports the construction of a multi-purpose facility that will be a valuable resource to residents," said John Mura, East Valley Water District General Manager/CEO. "By incorporating modern design elements, the Sterling Natural Resource Center will integrate itself to the neighborhood and create an environment that encourages public involvement."
In addition to the California Natural Resources Agency Grant, the SNRC has secured $6.7 million in State grants and $150 million in low-interest loans from California's Clean Water State Revolving Fund.
About Sterling Natural Resource Center
The Sterling Natural Resource Center (SNRC) is a state-of-the-art facility located on North Del Rosa Drive between East Fifth and East Sixth Streets in Highland, Calif., that will provide a sustainable new water supply to boost the region's water independence. Capable of treating up to 8 million gallons a day, the SNRC recharges the local Bunker Hill Groundwater Basin and creates new opportunities for the surrounding community in the form of education and training, community space, and neighborhood improvements. On October 2018, the project celebrated a significant milestone with over 300 local officials and community members joining East Valley Water District for the groundbreaking celebration of the SNRC. The project is currently under construction and is anticipated to be completed in 2022. For more information visit eastvalley.org/SNRC and follow the project on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
About East Valley Water District
East Valley Water District was formed in 1954 and provides water and wastewater collection services to more than 102,000 residents within the City of Highland and portions of both the City and County of San Bernardino. EVWD operates under the direction of a five-member elected Board. More information is available at www.eastvalley.org.
About the Clean Water State Revolving Fund
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program is a federal-state partnership that provides communities a permanent, independent source of low-cost financing for a wide range of water quality infrastructure projects. Funding for this Sterling Natural Resource Center project has been provided in full or in part by the Proposition 1the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014 and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund through an agreement with the State Water Resources Control Board. California's Clean Water State Revolving Fund is capitalized through a variety of funding sources, including grants from the United States Environmental Protection Agency and state bond proceeds.
About the Urban Greening Program
The Urban Greening Program is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide program that puts. billions of cap-and-trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy and improving public health and the environment-particularly in disadvantaged communities. The cap-and-trade program also creates a financial incentive for industries to invest in clean technologies and develop innovative ways to reduce pollution. California Climate Investment projects include affordable housing, renewable energy, public transportation, zero emission vehicles, environmental restoration, more sustainable agriculture, recycling and much more. At least 35 percent of these investments are made in disadvantaged and low-income communities. For more information, visit California Climate Investments.
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