Alger Park Upland Low Impact Development

Project Description

Located in a forested area of Southeast Washington, DC, Alger Park is home to a 1,300-foot stretch of stream that ultimately flows to the Anacostia River. Owned by the District of Columbia, the park sits within a highly developed watershed estimated to be 41% impervious. Over time, the velocity and quantity of stormwater runoff from the watershed had severely degraded the stream. In 2018, Biohabitats worked with the District Department of Energy and Environment to restore stability, function, and habitat to the stream.

In an effort to reduce peak flows and further improve the quality of stormwater entering Alger Park Stream, the District Department of Transportation initiated the implementation of thirty Low Impact Development concepts in areas upland of the stream. As a subconsultant to Toole Design Group, Biohabitats supported the stormwater management design by providing hydrologic, hydraulic, and treatment calculations, performing ecological design, and reviewing planting selections for thirty sites within Alger Park. These included bioretention and permeable pavement to retain and reduce stormwater runoff from the neighborhoods paved surfaces. Recognizing the importance of stakeholder support, Biohabitats also created material for and participated in public outreach meetings.

The project helped the District comply with the requirements of its Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit while enhancing the beauty and ecosystem services provided by its parkland and streetscapes.