After more than a decade in planning, the multi-year Permanente Creek restoration project is underway in the western foothills of Cupertino, one of the first major milestones in the reclamation of the historic Permanente Quarry site.
Santa Clara County Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga joined executives from site owner Heidelberg Materials and representatives from the Sierra Club, Loma Prieta Chapter Tuesday for a ribbon cutting ceremony marking the launch of a six-year project to restore 1.7 miles of creek lands.
The plan includes removing legacy mining infrastructure and invasive species, restoring the creek channel site, replanting native vegetation and creating additional pool habitat suitable for fish passage.
“This day was a long time in coming. But I am glad it has finally arrived,” said Supervisor Abe-Koga. “When completed, the project will substantially improve the creek and riparian habitat for fish.”
The plans are the result of Heidelberg Materials’ sustainability team and community advocacy, most notably from the Sierra Club, as well as other contributing agencies including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, California Department of Fish and Wildlife, SF Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board, the County of Santa Clara and the City of Cupertino.
Beyond ecosystem enhancements, the project aims to stabilize creek banks, reduce sedimentation, upgrade habitat for fish and wildlife, and address community expectations for waterway health.
“Our work continues, and we’re committed to staying engaged and responsive over the long-term,” said David Perkins, senior vice president for sustainability and public affairs at Heidelberg Materials North America. “This isn’t just a project milestone—it’s how we intend to work with others: by listening, showing up and building strong partnerships that reflect community values.”