Permeable pavements are on the rise and for a good reason.
- Runoff of storm water and melting snow containing sediments and pollutants flows across parking lots, sidewalks, streets and driveways and deposits into storm sewers and then into lakes and streams causing problems for the lakes and streams by damaging water quality and habitats.
- Permeable pavements allow water to flow through the surface collecting in a matrix of graded stone. The water is then recharged into the ground or captured and delivered to sediment ponds or other means of filtration. Other options are holding tanks with overflows; this water can be used to supply irrigation systems for residential and commercial sites.
- Types of permeable pavements include permeable asphalt, concrete, vegetative plastic grid systems, and pavers.
- Finally, design and installation of materials is crucial for performance.
