El Cajon to launch street-sweeping pilot program February

Starting next month, the City of El Cajon will launch a six-month, street-sweeping pilot program to reduce storm water pollution and prevent flooding.

City officials said the program will target removal of trash and debris that often remain for long periods because parked vehicles prevent street sweepers from accessing the curb.

The city will test sweeping on several streets, including Fesler Street (between between Johnson and Pioneer), Decker Street (between Anza and 1st),  East Madison Avenue (between 4th and Verdin Street) and East Main Street (between 3rd Street and Broadway).

The city recently launched an interactive map where street sweeping schedules can be viewed.

Residents and business owners will be notified by mid-January, officials said. “No Parking during Street Sweeping” signs will be installed to establish temporary parking restrictions.

Increased street sweeping will “improve drainage and reduce localized flooding,” officials said. Further, it will reduce the amount of pollutants entering storm drains and local waterways while allowing the city to address abandoned or long-term parked vehicles.

A recent spell of intense winter rainstorms put San Diego County on flood watch. Situated in a basin that is surrounded by mountains and hills, El Cajon was one of many cities in the county that faced potential flash flooding.

Parking enforcement will start with the second scheduled sweep, and violators could face a $42.50 parking citation, with the potential of their vehicle being towed.