Combining Storm Water Quality with Quality of Life in Portage, Michigan

Anticipating Phase II Storm Water regulations and a TMDL, the City of Portage is taking proactive steps to address requirements for water quality improvement. In a unique project, a storm water treatment system is currently under design which will significantly increase the quality of life for city residents while meeting and exceeding regulatory requirements. This new regional storm water treatment facility will be integrally linked to a recreational trail way system, provide treatment for runoff from 1.9 km² (463 acres) within the highly developed urban core targeting 80% pollutant removal rates, and double the length of existing trail ways in the city. The regional facility will allow reclamation of land for re-development by replacing several private, on-site detention basins that are poorly maintained and ineffective at pollutant removal and flow moderation. The new facility will be municipally-owned and maintained. Its design combines several storm water treatment options, including a sediment pond, wet detention basin and wetland treatment. More than a mile of scenic trail ways connecting major retail and recreational facilities will be integrated into the site plan. These trail ways allow access to the 10.4 ha (25.8 acres) comprising the storm water treatment area that provides wildlife habitat, a restored stream corridor, recreational access, flood protection and opportunities for environmental education. A monitoring program has been established to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment processes. This paper presents the unique integration of community benefits with the innovative storm water treatment system.