Lauren Jonaitis’ Post

We are grateful to all of the Biscayne Bay Marine Health Coalition members who urged the County’s Infrastructure, Operations, and Innovations Committee (CIOIC) to pass the Impervious Surface and Stormwater Ordinance. Your voices were heard as this vital ordinance passed the CIOIC unanimously! But it’s not over yet. The ordinance will now make its way to the full Board of County Commissioners (BCC). Background: Our system is currently not equipped to handle extreme rain events. We must improve the stormwater system design and maintenance standards for all municipalities, as we have all seen how poor design, insufficient maintenance and lack of oversight in the stormwater system has caused significant flooding and water quality issues entering our precious Biscayne Bay. The Impervious Surface and Stormwater Ordinance, sponsored by Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins, Esq., (and championed by our very own Chair, Dave Doebler and the BBMHC Steering Committee), includes dramatically improved stormwater system design and maintenance standards for all municipalities. Improved maintenance of stormwater infrastructure and management of our surface areas can help to reduce the volumes of water overwhelming the system, leading to flooding in neighborhoods and pollution in Biscayne Bay. As former Chief Bay Officer (and now again a Biscayne Bay Marine Health Coalition Steering Committee Member) said at the 2024 Summit, “After septic tanks, the biggest source of pollution is stormwater... stormwater, stormwater, stormwater.” Today, we celebrate that 5 Commissioners heard our community and voted yes on a piece of legislation that fulfills multiple recommendations from the Biscayne Bay Task Force Report, but we must continue to advocate for this vital legislation at the full BCC. Rule #1: Always Show Up Rule #2: Never Go Away

The Department of the Interior announced $849 million for 77 projects to revitalize aging #water delivery systems across the West, according to a Dec. 3 news release.

Construction News Poor stormwater infrastructure and urban flooding have become increasingly concerning issues for cities throughout the nation. The city of Chicago has a particularly sustainable plan: expanding its green stormwater infrastructure. The plan includes permeable pavements, rain gardens, and other eco-friendly solutions to better manage runoff. Go to https://ow.ly/uASz50TZXhV to learn more about how this plan is reshaping the city’s approach to resilient infrastructure and what it means for the future of sustainable urban development. #greeninfrastructure #urbansustainability #constructioninnovation #construction #constructionindustry #infrastructure #infrastructuredevelopment #futureofconstruction #futureofbuilding #greenbuilding #sustainableconstruction #sustainability #ecofriendly #rentnational #rentafence #nationalrentafence #nraf #nationalconstructionrentals #ncr

San Diego's stormwater infrastructure faces a $1.6B deficit. This piece takes a look at the environmental, economic, and community impacts of underfunded stormwater systems and how we as voters can address the crisis. https://lnkd.in/gicuvzJ4

Municipal Stormwater Management often goes under the radar... 🔍 Stormwater isn't just raindrops—it's a strategic asset waiting to be leveraged for the benefit of every city. Here's why stormwater management should be at the top of every city's agenda: 1️⃣ Resilient Infrastructure: Effective stormwater management is key to mitigating urban flooding and safeguarding your city's infrastructure against costly damage. Investing in resilient solutions now can save you millions in repairs down the line. 2️⃣ Regulatory Compliance: With increasingly stringent environmental regulations, proactive stormwater management isn't just a choice; it's a necessity. Staying ahead of compliance requirements protects city's reputations and resources. 3️⃣ Financial Efficiency: Smart stormwater strategies aren't just about meeting regulatory standards—they're about optimizing your budgets. Implementing green infrastructure projects can lower maintenance costs, enhance property values, and attract investment. 4️⃣ Community Well-being: By managing stormwater effectively, you're not just protecting infrastructure; you're improving quality of life for your citizens. Green spaces, flood prevention measures, and water conservation initiatives contribute to healthier, happier communities. #CityManagement #Stormwater #InfrastructureResilience #Sustainability #RegulatoryCompliance #CommunityWellbeing

Philadelphia is leading the way with its 25-year program, Green City, Clean Waters, focused on combating stormwater pollution through innovative green infrastructure. This initiative plays a crucial role in meeting the city's stormwater requirements. Key components of the program include: - **Reducing combined sewer overflows (CSOs):** CSO events, triggered by rain overwhelming the sewer system, lead to wastewater entering local water bodies. Philadelphia's stormwater regulations emphasize the use of green infrastructure to mitigate these occurrences by managing rainwater volume effectively. - **Enhancing green spaces:** By integrating green infrastructure with urban planning strategies, Philadelphia is working towards creating a symbiotic relationship between stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) and the city's landscape. - **Improving water quality:** The city is dedicated to implementing sustainable solutions that enhance water quality. By utilizing measures such as filtering and absorbing stormwater runoff, Philadelphia aims to elevate the overall quality of its water resources. Philadelphia's commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship shines through its Green City, Clean Waters program, illustrating a proactive approach to addressing stormwater challenges in an urban setting. #Sustainability #UrbanPlanning #EnvironmentalInitiatives #stormwatermanagement #PWD #Philadelphia #civilengineering #environmental #municipalengineering Learn more about our Philadelphia Stormwater Services at www.SCSstorm.com https://lnkd.in/e8jFA8e6

Climate Events and Construction Spend Drive U.S. Stormwater Market to US$54.5 Billion in 2030 Stormwater management is becoming a critical concern for municipalities, transportation departments, and property owners across the U.S. The increasing frequency and severity of climate events, responsible for US$156.8 billion in damages since 2000, are driving significant investment in stormwater infrastructure. 📊 According to our latest report, “U.S. Stormwater Infrastructure Market: Key Drivers, Competitive Shifts & Investment Outlook, 2024–2030,” CAPEX for stormwater management is projected to grow from US$34.6 billion to US$54.5 billion between 2023 and 2030. This represents a 6.7% compound annual growth rate. What is driving this market? Federal infrastructure investment, increasing climate events, and the construction boom. 🔗 Read the full press release: https://hubs.ly/Q02DDlzy0 Did you know there is a funding disparity? Stormwater currently receives approximately 7.5% of total water sector funding. 💡 For more key insights, explore our Insight Report + Data: https://lnkd.in/dE5E7v7X #StormwaterManagement #ClimateChange #InfrastructureInvestment #WaterSector #BluefieldResearch #BluefieldRunsOnData

City of London 2025 Annual Budget – Prioritizing River Road City of London has an issue of utmost importance: the urgent environmental and safety concerns in the River Road area. The River Road area is not just an industrial zone—it is home to residents, workers, and businesses that are vital to our city’s fabric. Yet, this area is facing serious threats that demand immediate action to protect public health, the environment, and the well-being of the broader community. The environmental issues in the River Road area cannot be ignored. Contaminated groundwater is migrating through area sewer systems and leaching beds, and the very low groundwater table only exacerbates this crisis. What’s more, direct discharges of contaminants of concern (COCs) from the neighboring Trafalgar Woods subdivision are further threatening the area. Many residents rely on drilled wells for their water—a reliance that is now a serious health risk. The lack of adequate drainage systems, municipal storm sewers, and sanitary infrastructure is compounding these hazards. This situation is unacceptable, and we cannot allow these threats to continue unchecked. Beyond the environmental dangers, the road infrastructure in the River Road area is a pressing safety concern. The unstable, narrow pavement makes it difficult for large trucks to maneuver safely, putting both drivers and residents at risk. Several intersections in the area are poorly aligned, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Without immediate intervention, these hazards will only grow. We must act now. The installation of both sanitary and stormwater sewers in the River Road area is not optional—it is essential. This infrastructure will stabilize the roads, prevent further contamination of groundwater, and provide the foundational safety and environmental protection this community deserves. The River Road area holds strong strategic links to London’s broader goals, and addressing these issues aligns perfectly with the budget priorities currently under consideration. By making the River Road area a top priority in the 2025 budget, we not only resolve urgent issues but also demonstrate our city’s commitment to protecting the health and safety of all who live and work here. This is not just an investment in infrastructure—it is an investment in the health, safety, and future of our community. The risks are clear, the need is urgent, and the time to act is now. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. Let us work together to ensure that the 2025 budget reflects the urgency of this situation and brings the much-needed improvements to the River Road area.

Urgent: Protect the Ohio River from Highway Expansion Impact The Ohio Department of Transportation is seeking EPA approval for a project that could significantly impact our region's vital waterway. The Brent Spence Bridge Corridor expansion project threatens to: Destroy over 1,500 feet of Northern Kentucky streams Remove 4+ acres of crucial wetlands Install a long-term causeway directly in the river The Ohio EPA is accepting public comments until February 5, 2025, and will hold a virtual hearing on January 29th, 2025 (4-5 PM EST). Your voice matters. Join me in urging the Ohio EPA to prioritize water quality and explore more sustainable infrastructure solutions. We can support transportation needs without compromising our essential water resources. Take action by submitting your comments to the Ohio EPA. Our region's environmental future depends on the decisions we make today. https://lnkd.in/gDyNztgJ #EnvironmentalProtection #OhioRiver #Sustainability #Infrastructure #WaterQuality #PublicPolicy #CleanWater #CommunityAction

Philadelphia is leading the way with its 25-year program, Green City, Clean Waters, focused on combating stormwater pollution through innovative green infrastructure. This initiative plays a crucial role in meeting the city's stormwater requirements. Key components of the program include: - **Reducing combined sewer overflows (CSOs):** CSO events, triggered by rain overwhelming the sewer system, lead to wastewater entering local water bodies. Philadelphia's stormwater regulations emphasize the use of green infrastructure to mitigate these occurrences by managing rainwater volume effectively. - **Enhancing green spaces:** By integrating green infrastructure with urban planning strategies, Philadelphia is working towards creating a symbiotic relationship between stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) and the city's landscape. - **Improving water quality:** The city is dedicated to implementing sustainable solutions that enhance water quality. By utilizing measures such as filtering and absorbing stormwater runoff, Philadelphia aims to elevate the overall quality of its water resources. Philadelphia's commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship shines through its Green City, Clean Waters program, illustrating a proactive approach to addressing stormwater challenges in an urban setting. #Sustainability #UrbanPlanning #EnvironmentalInitiatives #stormwatermanagement #PWD #Philadelphia #civilengineering #environmental #municipalengineering Learn more about our Philadelphia Stormwater Services at www.SCSstorm.com https://lnkd.in/e8jFA8e6