Dr. Peterson’s Reappointment

Palo Alto News Link

Santa Clara Valley Water District (Valley Water) is one of the largest and most complex water districts in California, serving nearly 2 million residents across 15 cities and unincorporated areas in Silicon Valley. It manages:

• 10 reservoirs and dams, including Anderson Dam, one of the largest in the Bay Area (currently undergoing a $2.3 billion seismic retrofit).
• 3 water treatment plants producing up to 210 million gallons/day.
• 400 miles of streams and levees for flood protection.
• A $1 billion+ annual budget, with long-range capital improvement plans exceeding $8 billion.
• Key roles in statewide water supply, infrastructure bond oversight, and climate resilience through groundwater recharge, recycled water, and Delta watershed planning.
   

Dr. Peterson’s reappointment to the Measure S Independent Monitoring Committee and chair of the flood protection subcommittee underscores his leadership in public accountability and strategic infrastructure investment at one of the most critical water agencies in the United States. Serving nearly two million residents in the heart of Silicon Valley, the Santa Clara Valley Water District is globally recognized for pioneering work in seismic dam safety, advanced water reuse, and climate-resilient urban infrastructure—making it a model for water-stressed regions worldwide.

********

Palo Alto Planning and Transportation Commission
Dr. Peterson serves as a commissioner on the Palo Alto Planning and Transportation Commission, appointed by vote of the Palo Alto City Council. His selection reflects his track record in public infrastructure governance. His academic expertise has helped inform local government policy in one of the most economically significant and closely watched cities in the world.
Key responsibilities and distinguishing projects include:

• Caltrain Rail Realignment & Grade Separation
• San Francisquito Creek Flood Protection Project
• Land Use and Mobility Policy in a Global Tech Hub

Dr. Peterson’s appointment reflects the integration of academic insight and public trust—drawing on his research leadership at Stanford and his regional expertise in infrastructure, climate policy, and high-tech urban planning in a globally visible setting.