University green stormwater infrastructure
Project update
April 2018
In February King County crews drilled small wells in public planting strips across the six square-mile Project study area. Crews collected data about soil and water drainage from the wells. This information will help King County find the best places to install green stormwater infrastructure (GSI). Most of the work is complete, but crews will revisit planting strips to take measurements and pictures.
February 2018
King County is beginning a green stormwater infrastructure project in north Seattle. This project will install facilities to help control a combined sewer overflow in Portage Bay. In 2017-18, the project team will study soil, groundwater, surface water flow, and street conditions in the project area to identify the best locations for facilities to be installed.
Project study area
The project will select sites for installing green stormwater infrastructure from within the area below.
Approximate boundaries are intended for planning purposes only. Further study and evaluation will be completed prior to selection of any site.
Project need
In the University CSO Basin in Seattle, heavy rains can cause sewers to overflow into Portage Bay approximately six times per year. This project will install facilities to help control these overflows. Learn more about King County’s CSOs.
What is green stormwater infrastructure?
Green stormwater infrastructure—also called natural drainage—mimics nature by slowing or reducing polluted runoff close to its source. It also treats polluted runoff from roads, roofs, and parking lots by capturing and cleaning it before it harms our waterways. Learn more!
Project description
In this first phase of the project the County will consider what types of green stormwater infrastructure it should build, and where within the study area they should be installed. Some options include different types of bioretention and permeable pavement in alleys or streets. Learn more!
Your feedback
The County will share its evaluation of two to four alternative ways of doing green stormwater infrastructure with the public, and ask for your feedback online and through community events. Visit the public involvement page.
Project schedule
| 4Q 2017 | Alternative analysis begins |
| 1Q 2019 | Alternative analysis complete |
| 3Q 2019 | Predesign complete |
| 1Q 2021 | Final design complete |
| 2Q 2021 – 2Q 2023 | Implementation (bidding, award, construction) |
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Resources
The County’s green stormwater infrastructure project in West Seattle:
- Visit the Website for the County’s green stormwater infrastructure project in West Seattle, and read the project’s newsletter update .
- Video about the West Seattle project (Barton Roadside Rain Gardens , 3:00)
- Video: Neighbors discuss the County’s Barton roadside rain gardens , 2:30
The big picture:
- Green Solutions to Stormwater Runoff , a video by Sightline Institute made in Seattle
- www.700milliongallons.org , all about green stormwater infrastructure
RainWise rebates:
- Many residents of this area can install their own green stormwater infrastructure (rain gardens and cisterns) on their own property funded by an average $4,400 rebate. Check your eligibility and learn more .
