Did you know the stormwater department is responsible for approximately 35,000 catch basins, 178 miles of underground pipe network, 608 miles of roadside ditch and upwards of 50 stormwater detention facilities? The detention facilities, known as BMPs or Best Management Practices, can look like the wet or dry ponds you may see behind big department stores. They can also include various types of green infrastructure, such as bioretention basins, all addressing the quality and quantity of stormwater runoff. Recently, our stormwater team completed a large Capital Improvement Project in the 8th City Council District that brought new stormwater infrastructure to the Chapel/McGuire Drive neighborhood in response to routine flooding of the area. Another capital project recently completed in the 3rd City Council District was the Pine Camp Safety and Stream Rehabilitation Project, which repaired a severely degraded stream. This project addressed erosion and safety, and promotes a healthy habitat for wildlife, native plants and the community. 

The stormwater equipment operators will be cleaning storm basins all over the city with a specific focus on the Southside, where the city’s floodplain lies. A floodplain is a natural low-lying area next to a river or stream, which helps to spread out and slow down water during rain events. Although building on the floodplain is discouraged in the city, we have still seen an increase in apartments, restaurants and other businesses in that area. Other areas of the city need more frequent attention due to the types of pollutants getting clogged in the drains. As stormwater travels across parking lots, roadways and sidewalks, it picks up dirt, trash, oil, grease, pet waste and other pollutants and carries them into the basins as well as the waterways. 

The process to clean one stormwater basin can take anywhere from 15 to upwards of 45 minutes, depending on the amount of trash and debris that has made its way into it.  Our crew members must open the basins, use our sophisticated vacuum system to remove the top layer of debris and then loosen up tightly packed leaves, trash and other items with high-pressure water hoses, often scraping as well to get everything cleaned up. In some of the basins, they also must chop up and remove roots from trees and plants that find their way to this water source. That is a lengthy process for a three-to-four-man crew. Not to mention the assembly and breakdown process it takes each time they move from one basin to the next. 

While leaves, dirt and pollen cannot be completely controlled, we do have control over human and pet waste. Keeping the storm basins clean and clear is a shared responsibility, and we must all do our part. If you see something, say something and if you come across a storm basin that is clogged and causing flooding in your neighborhood, know that you can call 311, but preventative measures will make a lasting impact. As a resident of the city, remember to properly dispose of waste and hazardous materials. You can also join a neighborhood clean-up, post signs prohibiting littering and educate your neighbors about the harm caused by human pollution that can lead to flooding and a negative impact on our river system. These practices allow our crews to focus on the most important tasks. You can also apply for stormwater credits to reduce your monthly bill by properly installing a rain barrel. For more information, visit our website, https://rvah2o.org/, to catch the latest stormwater news, learn about current and future projects and find more ways to get involved in the community!