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Stormwater Bump-Outs

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StreetBumpout-Large.jpg
What are they:

“A stormwater bumpout is a vegetated curb extension that protrudes into the street either mid-block or at an intersection, creating a new curb some distance from the existing curb. A bumpout is composed of a layer of stone that is topped with soil and plants. An inlet or curb-cut directs runoff into the bumpout structure where it can be stored, infiltrated, and taken up by the plants (evapotranspiration). Excess runoff is permitted to leave the system and flow to an existing inlet. The vegetation of the bumpout will be short enough to allow for open sight lines of traffic. Aside from managing stormwater, bumpouts also help with traffic-calming, and when located at crosswalks, they provide a pedestrian safety benefit by reducing the street crossing distance.”
Advantages/Benefits:

-shorten crossing distances on streets (safer for pedestrians)
-gives perception of road narrowing so drivers slow down in this area
-reduce stormwater overflow
-add curb appeal (make area nicer and increase its property value)
Disadvantages/Challenges:

-adding one means changing the official City Plan (require ordinance/letter from Streets Commissioner/public hearing)
-finding a good place to put them so they don’t obstruct normal traffic flow (esp. For emergency vehicles)
-placing them in an area that would not negatively affect underground utilities
-keeping the bump out clean (picking up trash thrown into the vegetation

How they work:

  1. Stormwater from roadway flows into bumpout
  2. Water ponds over the soil where it will gradually be absorbed and filtered through various subsrates
  3. The native plants filter and transpire the water as well before the water is stored in the stone or other storage media underneath
  4. A domed riser is directly connected to the storage area in case of really heavy rainfall so water is taken into the ground faster
  5. Once it’s filled, the water can overflow safely into the inlet and into the sewer



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