Environmental street improvement

In June 2002, Council approved an alternate type of street improvement project that addresses environmental issues by allowing surface water to permeate into the ground instead of being directed into a storm sewer system. The concept was based on Seattle's SEA streets as depicted in the pictures along the right side of the page.

Instead of a straight curbed and guttered street, this alternative street design does not have gutters but a concrete band that meanders along the length of the block which tends to slow down vehicles. Along the perimeter of the meandering street are drainage swales that absorb surface water. The drainage swales are populated with low maintenance shrubs or other landscape enhancements. Parking for adjacent properties for individual or groups are incorporated into the design of the street.

Application of this option is limited as not all unimproved streets are suitable. Each street will be evaluated on its merits. Where appropriate a Petition will be issued for this sustainable street option. Where not appropriate, a Petition for standard street improvement will be issued instead.

Key Benefits

• Removal of gravel shoulders
• improved driving surface
• unique enhancements
• low maintenance landscaping
• environmentally friendly

Quoting rate for environmental street improvement

Owners are assessed for part of the cost of construction of the improvement. The City contributes towards the cost of construction as well. The quoting rate for this type of project has yet to be determined but it will be at least equivalent to cost sharing of a standard street improvement. Once the pilot project has been completed and the cost reviewed, quoting rates will be posted.

The amount each property owner contributes is based upon the assessable length of their property multiplied by the quoting rate which has yet to be determined. Usually the assessable length is the frontage length of the lot. However, there are lots that are unusual in shape and may be eligible for equitable adjustments. Please refer to Assessments for more detail.

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