The Torrent of Water near the Career Center

While walking around campus last Thursday, we stumbled upon a road that seemed to be never ending in its flooding. The road was saturated with water, and no clear direction of flow, or discharge. The water lay stagnant, rather than draining into the nearby sewage system. The water seemed to be high enough to reach past the ankle, and though there was an incline, the water did not dissipate. In boots, our feet still became wet, and the trees seemed to be insignificant in their purpose of absorbing the water.

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Stormwater Bump-Outs

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 a...

Right-of-Way Bioswales

What are they: Right-of-way bioswales are green infrastructures designed to capture stormwater runoff and alleviate the water, therefore reducing the number of water that enters the sewer system, and reducing the chance of sewer flooding. Bioswales are typically vegetated or mulched and treat water as it flows into the system, while also reducing the amount of water that does enter the system. They are best placed along streets and parking lots as it is easiest for them to care for and capture the water in those locations. Advantages/Benefits: Decrease the amount of pollutants in the water before it reaches the sewer, cutting costs of water treatment Water is absorbed by trees and plants through evapotranspiration Remaining water evaporates after the rain stops If the Bioswale reaches capacity, the water will flow out into the catch basin while following its normal pattern The plants used in the Bioswales help add to the atmosphere while providing a po...

Group 073-09: The Deterioration of 32nd and Arch Street

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