Old Bay Ridge Road Step Pool Conveyance System
Parts of the Chesapeake Bay watershed contain a high percentage of impervious cover – paved or other hard surfaces such as roofs and roadways that prevent rain water from being absorbed into the ground. Instead, water runs along these surfaces, collecting trash and substances such as motor oil, lawn fertilizers, and pesticides. This polluted stormwater flows into streams and rivers, where it threatens aquatic ecosystems and public health.
Effective stormwater management, on the other hand, creates safe paths for polluted runoff to be captured and filtered through the ground before it reaches waterways. This helps keep the environment clean and our communities healthy!
Project location: Annapolis, MD
Problem: In Annapolis’ Bay Ridge neighborhood, a culvert at Cat Hole Creek had become overwhelmed by the volume of stormwater flowing from surrounding areas during rain events. Excess water had eroded the hillside near the culvert and caused sinkholes to form, making the area unsafe for Bay Ridge residents who had enjoyed swimming in the Creek.
Solution: Bay Ridge residents took action to restore the Cat Hole Creek culvert area, by writing letters to Annapolis City Council members. In response, Anne Arundel County removed the underperforming culvert, filled the dangerous sinkholes, and installed a Step Pool Storm Conveyance System to manage and treat stormwater. County stormwater fee proceeds made this project possible. Positive outcomes include a safe place for neighborhood children to swim and play, improved aesthetics, and reduced pollutants entering the creek.
Scale: 75 linear feet treating runoff from 127 acres
Cost: $372,000
More information: http://www.aacounty.org/departments/public-works/wprp/restoration/WPRP_P...
