Skip to Content
Streetsblog Los Angeles home
Streetsblog Los Angeles home
Log In
Streetsblog USA

Talking Headways Podcast: You Can’t Surf After the Storm

podcast icon logo
Meal delivery is one service of Project Roomkey. Photo: LAHSA

This week we’re talking about water in cities. It's a topic that doesn’t get much attention because the infrastructure is mostly underground, but after putting this together I believe thinking about water infrastructure and climate change is more important than ever.

Wastewater and storm water treatment is far behind where it should be in many American cities. In this episode I chat with NRDC water experts Alisa Valderrama and Rob Moore about the dangers of storm water runoff on streets and in flood-prone watersheds. Rob discusses flood data, the national flood insurance program’s propensity for allowing rebuilding in flood-prone areas, and what climate data actually tells us. Alisa talks about the different types of storm water systems in U.S. cities, the desire of economic development directors to make cities proud of their waterways, and green solutions that will save money while also cleaning polluted waterways.

So check it out, and until we get better about greening our water systems make sure you don’t go surfing in San Diego after a storm.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog Los Angeles

Tuesday’s Headlines

Potholes, wildfires, car-free life, Chandler bikeway, South Pasadena freeway fighter, East L.A. walks, car-nage, and more

January 6, 2026

This Week In Livable Streets

Metro Public Safety Advisory Committee, Sawtelle Bikes ride, and more.

January 5, 2026

UCLA Study Finds Metro Transit Ambassador Program Is Benefitting Metro Riders

"Overall, ambassadors contribute to improved passenger experiences and play a needed role not well-served by other existing staff or system design features."

January 5, 2026

Monday’s Headlines

La Brea pothole, cap-and-trade, rain gardens, river path, Angeles Crest Highway, car-nage, and more

January 5, 2026

Streetsblog Predictions for 2026

Rail openings, speed cameras, but not many new bikeways

January 2, 2026
See all posts