Restoring Connections: Evelyn Avenue Fish Passage Project

Stevens Creek is more than a waterway; it's a lifeline for wildlife and a cherished resource for our community. But in Mountain View, the stretch of creek between the Evelyn Avenue and Central Expressway bridges has long been hindered by barriers that block fish, like the federally protected Central California Coast Steelhead, from migrating to their upstream spawning habitats.

An earlier attempt in 2015 to restore fish passage here was damaged by winter floods, leaving the problem unresolved. Now, Valley Water is undertaking the Evelyn Avenue Fish Passage Project to rebuild and improve upon past efforts. This project will remove passage barriers and create a roughened channel with riffles and pools to mimic natural streams, add large wood features to enhance aquatic habitat, and stabilize eroding banks downstream of Evelyn Avenue.

Construction is set for summer 2025 and summer 2026, with maintenance as needed in 2027. By reconnecting Stevens Creek's natural pathways, this project will support fish migration, restore ecological balance, and protect a vital community resource. Visit valleywater.org for updates.