Wednesday May 30 2012 4:23 PM

Pierce County has won an award for a pilot project that used pervious concrete for the first time on a county road as a means of helping to control flooding.

The first place "Excellence in Concrete Construction" award was presented during the Washington Aggregates and Concrete Association's 44th annual banquet on May 9. The trade association represents sand-, gravel-, rock- and cement-related businesses and suppliers.

For the pilot project, a cul-de-sac and a portion of 139th Street E in the Parkland area were replaced using 1,716 square yards of pervious concrete when the roadway was rebuilt to address flooding in the area. The pilot project also allowed the county to explore new road construction methods that reduce runoff during storms and recharge groundwater.

Pervious concrete allows rain water to infiltrate through the pavement and into the soil below. During high groundwater events, pervious concrete works in reverse, allowing the groundwater to rise through the pavement while still providing a drivable surface for residents and emergency vehicles.

"The project was recognized for its innovative use of pervious concrete," said Harold Smelt, Public Works and Utilities surface water manager. "Since we hope to use pervious concrete in future projects, we will be very interested to watch how this innovative application stands the test of time."

The project was constructed last fall at a cost of $318,387. Northwest Cascades, Inc. was the general contractor; Tyee Concrete Construction, Inc. was the concrete contractor; and Corliss Resources, Inc. was the ready mix supplier.

In addition to the pilot road project, the county also purchased three properties with homes in the area that were repeatedly flooded. The houses were removed and the properties will remain as a natural area.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Harold Smelt, Public Works and Utilities surface water manager
(253) 798-2952
hsmelt@co.pierce.wa.us

Teresa Lewis, Public Works and Utilities outreach and education coordinator
(253) 798-2480
tlewis1@co.pierce.wa.us