As municipal governments continue to move towards green infrastructure, innovative uses of existing materials become increasingly important. Additionally, the need to effectively move and treat storm water runoff becomes increasingly important.  Local municipalities are recognizing the importance of these two items.  Porous asphalt pavements can often provide the benefit the municipality is looking for. With the proper application of porous asphalt pavement, storm water infiltrates into the pavement through a recharge bed and either infiltrates into the underlying soils or into a storm sewer system. In some cases, the underlying recharge system can also be utilized as a storm water storage system, possibly reducing the need for detention ponds or underground storage in congested urban areas.

Innovative uses of these types of pavements can have direct advantages to your municipality or organization. Placement of porous pavements in alley sections can help control storm water runoff in areas that often have cross slope and surface grade challenges. In parking lot areas, an entire parking lot could be placed in porous pavement or in strategically placed strips between parking stalls or in access walkways. Surface water is quickly and completely moved off the pavement surface which then provides a safe and dry route for access to parks, buildings and related facilities. The added benefit is the addition of green infrastructure and storm water management.

For more information on how your organization can benefit from the innovative use of porous asphalt pavement contact an expert at R/M today


About the Author

Kenneth Ward, P.E.

Kenneth R. Ward, P.E. 
VP/Office Manager

Ken has been with Ruekert & Mielke, Inc. (R/M) since 1984. He has worked as a primary client contact, project manager and project engineer on a variety of municipal infrastructure projects including streets, alleys, sewers, storm water management, bike route trails and water mains. He has an extensive background in construction inspection, public involvement and public assessment of municipal improvements.

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