FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 11, 2019
Contact: Evan Pratt, Water Resources Commissioner
Phone: 734-222-6860
E-mail: [email protected]
ANN ARBOR STORMWATER IMPROVEMENTS
ANN ARBOR Mich., June 11, 2019 – Stormwater runoff continues to be the primary cause of water pollution in the Huron River. Eroded soil and phosphorus threaten in-stream habitat and cause algae blooms. Oils, heavy metals, E. coli and salt contaminate the river each time it rains.
Over the past several years the Office of the Water Resources Commissioner has partnered with the City of Ann Arbor, and the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (Formerly DEQ) to improve stormwater infrastructure, reduce flow and improve water quality.
The result of this collaboration can be seen at West Park wetlands, rain gardens along Miller Ave, Stone School and Madison St., stream bank stabilization at Leslie Park Golf Course and Malletts Creek, and infiltration beds along Geddes Ave. All of these projects include stormwater treatment elements. All were funded by a low interest state revolving loan; most received grant funds that will not have to be repaid.
The deadline to identify future stormwater improvement projects for state revolving financing is July 1, 2019. On behalf of the City of Ann Arbor, the Water Resources Commissioner has drafted a 5-year plan, currently available for public review at 705 N. Zeeb Road. Electronic copies are available by contacting [email protected].
All 14 projects are taken from the City’s 2020-2025 Capital Improvements Plan with the exception of one. Many are associated with road reconstruction that will comply with the Green Streets Policy.
The total estimated cost for all projects is approximately $23 million. Each project is eligible for federal and state grant funding and can receive financing at 2.0% for 20 years. Debt obligations are repaid by the City’s Stormwater Utility. The recently adopted rate increase takes into account the costs of these projects. There will be no additional rate increases associated with these projects. Should project needs exceed available funding, projects will be prioritized and some deferred. Office Open Week Days From 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
A public hearing on the plan will be held on Thursday, June 13 from 7-8:30 PM. A brief presentation will be made prior to an open discussion. Public comments are welcome and will become part of the process of project selection.
Location: NEW Center
1100 N. Main Street, 2nd floor
The mission of the Office of the Water Resources Commissioner is to provide for the health, safety and welfare of Washtenaw County citizens and the protection of surface water and the environment and to promote the long term environmental and economic sustainability of Washtenaw County by providing storm water management, flood control, development review and water quality programs. Visit www.washtenaw.org/drains.
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