The majestic and beautiful Olentangy River roars through the heart of Franklin County, inspiring awe in those who witness its power.
A nice vision, yes, but this description is far from the real thing. We see the Olentangy as a murky urban cesspool that stagnates through Columbus. Despite how much we’ve polluted it, the river is used by the many residents of central Ohio. It is even, after treatment, a source of drinking water for over 1.1 million residents, and a source of recreation for many. Individuals are exposed to a river that is contaminated with pollutants from human sewage and runoff. This contamination is a problem for the community as a whole, and is intensified by the use of impermeable surfaces.
Our ENR 567 group wanted to address the problem of stormwater runoff and urban pollution entering our river. We propose implementing permeable pavement in Grandview Yard as a test site to help solve these problems. This type of pavement will reduce runoff contamination and decrease the chances that a large rain event would cause a sewer system overflow.
In the right light, the Olentangy may appear to be a beautiful river, but within the water lies contamination. (Photo courtesy of Ariel Miller, personal photo)
Permeable pavements have immense ecological benefits that can be useful in improving river health. Permeable pavement reduces the amount of runoff, lessening the stress on stormwater systems and simultaneously increasing the water quality. The pavement allows a water infiltration rate of 97 percent while removing up to 90 percent of sediments, bacteria, and heavy metals. This system is simple, effective, and inexpensive in the long run. Implementing this pavement is as easy as lay and walk away, and sweeping it just twice a year.
We suggest that permeable pavement be used in Columbus to improve the quality of our water, because without a healthy life support system, our city and its people are bound to be unhealthy as well. With permeable pavement, we could soon be on the right path to a sustainable, vibrant future.