Project Summary
Located in a community still served by a combined sewer system, Caribe Bakery has benefited from the installation of a bioswale. Bioswales are a green infrastructure measure designed to manage stormwater runoff. This initiative is part of a broader effort to alleviate pressure on sewer systems during wet weather events.
West Creek Conservancy, acting as fiscal agent and project manager, assisted the property owners in securing funding through the NEORSD Green Infrastructure grant program. The bioswale now captures rainwater on-site, reducing the volume of stormwater entering the combined sewer system and contributing to improved water quality in the area.
Project Partners
This project was supported by the property owner, the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD), and Big Creek Connects.
Outcomes and Benefits
The project is designed to capture nearly all of the rainwater that falls on the property, preventing it from entering the combined sewer system. This will mitigate stormwater surges during heavy rainfall, easing the strain on local infrastructure while promoting sustainable water management practices.
As water flows through the bioswale, pollutants like sediments, oils, and heavy metals are filtered out by the plants and soil, improving the quality of water that reenters the environment. The Caribe Bakery bioswale is planted with native grasses, shrubs, and other plants that not only filter pollutants but also create a habitat for local wildlife.
Compared to traditional stormwater systems, bioswales can be more cost-effective in the long term, reducing the need for expensive piping and drainage systems by naturally managing stormwater.
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