Fussel, Jason

Jason Fussel is a civil engineer and land surveyor with over 22 years of experience specializing in Low Impact Development (LID), Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP), and Water Quality Management Plans (WQMP). He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and is a licensed Professional Engineer in California and Hawaii. Jason focuses on implementing LID techniques and best management practices to enhance stormwater management and water quality. As a Qualified SWPPP Developer and Practitioner, he develops strategies to mitigate pollution from stormwater runoff, utilizing innovative design solutions. His expertise includes hydrology analysis and tailored stormwater solutions. Jasons commitment to sustainable practices is evident in his leadership on regional stormwater capture projects, integrating green infrastructure to meet regulatory compliance while benefiting urban environments.

Titles from this speaker

Central Jefferson: Rethinking Alley Networks for Stormwater Capture

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: The Central Jefferson Green Alley project in Los Angeles reimagines urban alleyways as functional green infrastructure within the Compton Creek subwatershed, a tributary to the Upper Los Angeles River (ULAR). Historically used as dumping grounds for household and industrial waste, these alleys contributed to pollution accumulation during dry weather, including oil, heavy metals, nutrients, trash, sediment, and bacteria. This project aims to provide multiple benefits to a disadvantaged community while addressing Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) priority pollutants such as zinc and E. coli, thereby supporting the goals of the City and ULAR Watershed Management Group. Objectives: The project's primary objectives are to: 1. Reduce pollutant loads, including TMDL priority pollutants (zinc and E. coli). 2. Enhance stormwater infiltration to mitigate urban runoff. 3. Improve urban aesthetics and engage the community in watershed education. 4. Assess the long-term effectiveness of green infrastructure improvements. Status: The Central Jefferson Green Alley Network has been successfully implemented, featuring repaved alleys, parkway swales, planters with espaliered fruit trees, native grasses, and stormwater capture systems. Early performance data indicates significant pollutant reductions and effective stormwater management, though challenges remain with long-term maintenance and monitoring systems. Methodology: Key design elements included: Repaving alleys to improve stormwater conveyance. Installing parkway swales and infiltration chambers to capture and treat runoff. Adding planters for traffic calming and stormwater infiltration. Performance monitoring involved: Installing area velocity sensors in inlet pipes to measure influent flow rates. Deploying water level loggers within infiltration chambers to monitor drawdown times. Conducting water quality sampling for three wet weather events to analyze parameters such as E. coli, zinc, oil and grease, and suspended sediments. Findings: The project demonstrated: 1. 100% infiltration of stormwater volume during sampled storm events. 2. Significant reductions in zinc and E. coli levels. 3. Decreases in secondary pollutants such as oil and grease, trash, and suspended sediments. Technical challenges included sensor malfunctions caused by sediment buildup and rapid battery depletion, which impacted data collection for some storm events. To address gaps, total flow rates were estimated using local rainfall data. Significance/Conclusion: The Central Jefferson Green Alley project showcases the potential for urban alley networks to serve as effective green infrastructure. Despite monitoring challenges, the project achieved its goals of pollutant reduction and stormwater management while enhancing community spaces. Long-term maintenance, including sediment removal and equipment upgrades, is essential to sustain performance. This initiative serves as a model for integrating green infrastructure into dense urban areas to achieve environmental, social, and educational benefits.

This paper was presented at WEFTEC 2025, held September 27-October 1, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

Presentation time

11:00:00

11:30:00

Session time

10:30:00

12:00:00

SessionInnovative Green Infrastructure Solutions in Diverse Urban Settings

Session locationMcCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois, USA

TopicStormwater

Author(s)

Aguirre, Alex, Fussel, Jason, Ho, Kevin, Harris, Andre

Author(s)A. Aguirre1, J. Fussel1, K. Ho2, A. Harris2

Author affiliation(s)Tetra Tech1, LA Sanitation and Environment2

SourceProceedings of the Water Environment Federation

Document typeConference Paper

PublisherWater Environment Federation

Print publication date Oct 2025

DOI10.2175/193864718825160092

Volume / Issue

Content sourceWEFTEC

Word count9

Description: Equity and Social Justice Woven into Stormwater Solutions: The Power of Partnerships...

Equity and Social Justice Woven into Stormwater Solutions: The Power of Partnerships Benefiting Communities

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to address environmental and social Justice in stormwater settings. This is achieved through partnerships that cities, non-profit organizations, and technical experts bring to the successful development and implementation of stormwater projects with focus in disadvantaged communities. Today more than ever all infrastructure projects including those in disadvantaged communities require broad support from communities to come to fruition. Although ideas are brought forward from many interested parties, it takes a strong partnership among non-profit organizations who know communities, cities, and technical experts to deliver results. For many years, strong partnerships have helped to weave equity and social justice into stormwater projects to bring multi-benefit solutions to underserved communities.

This paper highlights the importance of partnerships that cities, non-profit organizations, and technical experts bring to the successful development and implementation of stormwater projects. It takes a strong partnership among non-profit organizations who know communities very well having developed trusted relationships through years of service and technical experts to come together and deliver results.

SpeakerIbarra-Bianchetta, Judith

Presentation time

13:30:00

13:50:00

Session time

13:30:00

15:00:00

SessionStormwater Design Case Studies

Session locationRoom S401d - Level 4

TopicDiversity, Equity & Inclusion, Intelligent Water, Intermediate Level, Stormwater and Green Infrastructure

Author(s)

Ibarra-Bianchetta, Judith

Author(s)J. Ibarra-Bianchetta 1; J. Fussel 1 ; G. Deras 2; R. Mark 3; J. Casanova 4; J. Ibarra-Bianchetta 1;

Author affiliation(s)Tetra Tech 1; Tetra Tech 1 ; City of South Gate 2; Trust for Public Land 3; Council for Watershed Health 4; Tetra Tech 1;

SourceProceedings of the Water Environment Federation

Document typeConference Paper

PublisherWater Environment Federation

Print publication date Oct 2023

DOI10.2175/193864718825159108

Volume / Issue

Content sourceWEFTEC

Word count15

Merced Avenue Greenway Project: A Model for Future Urban Street Retrofits

Abstract

Introduction.
The Merced Avenue Greenway Project is a transformative planning, design, and construction initiative focused on revitalizing a 1.1-mile urban corridor in the City of South El Monte, California. This stretch of Merced Avenue has long suffered from challenges including inadequate stormwater management, recurring flood risks, limited green spaces, and a lack of safe, accessible pedestrian and bike pathways. These issues have not only impacted water quality and urban sustainability but have also contributed to the area's vulnerability to climate change effects such as extreme heat and storm events.

The project was initiated as a response to these pressing environmental and community challenges, with a commitment to align with the goals of the Upper Los Angeles River Watershed Enhanced Watershed Management Program (ULAR EWMP). The ULAR EWMP prioritizes water quality improvement through the integration of climate-resilient stormwater infrastructure and green street designs. Recognizing the need for a holistic approach, the Merced Avenue Greenway Project incorporates strategies for stormwater capture and infiltration, vegetative habitat restoration, and enhanced mobility for pedestrians and cyclists.

The work includes the implementation of innovative stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) such as bioswales, permeable pavements, and rain gardens. Additionally, the project prioritizes urban greening efforts, with tree planting and native vegetation to reduce the urban heat island effect and support biodiversity. Community engagement has been a cornerstone of this project, with outreach programs designed to educate residents and foster their involvement in shaping the project outcomes.

This pilot effort aims to establish a replicable model for green street retrofits, addressing not only the immediate needs of Merced Avenue but also setting a precedent for sustainable urban design in similar communities. The outcomes of this initiative are expected to include improved stormwater management, enhanced water quality, increased community resilience to climate change, and a more livable urban environment.

Objectives.
To decrease flood risk, increase vegetative cover, restore habitat, improve active transportation, and reduce urban heat island effects.

Status.
The southern portion of the project is nearing construction completion. The northern portion of the project is currently in the planning and design phase, with a strong emphasis on community outreach and education.

Methodology.
The project leverages the Upper Los Angeles River Watershed Enhanced Watershed Management Program (ULAR EWMP) to implement climate-resilient stormwater BMPs and urban greening elements.

Findings.
The project will serve as a pilot for developing green street design standards and contribute to water quality improvement strategies in Los Angeles County.

Significance/Conclusion.
This initiative exemplifies an integrated approach to urban street retrofits, blending infrastructure improvements with community and environmental benefits.

This paper was presented at WEFTEC 2025, held September 27-October 1, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

Presentation time

11:30:00

12:00:00

Session time

10:30:00

12:00:00

SessionInnovative Green Infrastructure Solutions in Diverse Urban Settings

Session locationMcCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois, USA

TopicStormwater

Author(s)

Fussel, Jason, Pangilinan, Elva, Casanova, Jason

Author(s)J. Fussel1, E. Pangilinan1, J. Casanova2

Author affiliation(s)Tetra Tech Inc1, Council for Watershed Health2

SourceProceedings of the Water Environment Federation

Document typeConference Paper

PublisherWater Environment Federation

Print publication date Oct 2025

DOI10.2175/193864718825160096

Volume / Issue

Content sourceWEFTEC

Word count12

The Full Benefits Package: Park Redevelopment for the Environment and Community

Abstract

The City of Los Angeles, California saw an opportunity for improvement through redeveloping the land adjacent to the Los Angeles River (previously used for warehousing, vehicle repair, and fueling operations) to a Park to increase the total recreation center acreage to about ten acres and to implement environmentally positive water quality improvements systems to minimize harmful pollutants in the area. Some key construction items included inspection of underground vault units, subgrade preparation, and placement of geotextiles and liners as well as keeping the local community informed through constant communication. Redevelopment can create and/or add to community assets while also benefitting the environment, thus elevating the quality of life for surrounding members of the community.

SpeakerFussel, Jason

Presentation time

11:00:00

11:20:00

Session time

10:30:00

12:00:00

SessionLeveraging Stormwater Infrastructure to Build a Better Community

Session locationRoom S403b - Level 4

TopicDiversity, Equity & Inclusion, Intermediate Level, Public Communication and Outreach, Stormwater and Green Infrastructure

Author(s)

Fussel, Jason