Credit: Tom Sofield/LevittownNow.com
Two watershed restoration projects in the area are getting funding from the state.
Recently, it was announced Bristol Borough will receive $110,000 in state funding to create a vegetated swale at the wooded area between Green and Howell Streets. The current swale has faced severe erosion, little-to-no vegetation in the flow area and sediment buildup, officials said.
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“Converting the existing stormwater swale to a vegetated bioswale will help effectively treat and control the runoff going into the swale by filtering out pollutants and sediments, slowing runoff, and promoting infiltration. Native plants with deep roots and grasses will assist in building up the soil structure and allow water to infiltrate the ground more easily,” according to a statement on the project.
“Borough council will be grateful for this grant, which will be used to benefit the environment,” Bristol Borough Manager James Dillon said.
Gov. Tom Wolf, State Sen. Steve Santarsiero, and state representatives John Galloway and Tina Davis, all Democrats, announced the funding as part of a package of 130 project worth $18.2 Million statewide.
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“As we see increased rainfall and flooding impact the residents of Bristol Borough, it is clear we need to implement solutions that help protect the homes and businesses in the area, while combating the devastating effects of climate change,” said Santarsiero. “Vegetated swales, like the one that will be constructed on Howell Street, will use native plants to help manage stormwater runoff, filter pollutants and improve water infiltration.”
Galloway praise the funding for the project and said it will help with the “increasingly violent impact of climate change.”
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Another project funded through the state will send $255,000 to Bristol Township to improve the existing swales along Mill Creek near Plumbridge Drive in the township’s Levittown section.
“With this funding, the Township has the opportunity to implement stormwater projects in an effort to reduce sediment in our waterways. The focus area is along the wooded section of Mill Creek adjacent to the Plumbridge Drive. The existing swales exhibit signs of severe erosion occurring and lacks vegetation which allows sediment to flow directly into Mill Creek. The proposed installation of vegetated swales will improve Mill Creek to protect water quality, promote groundwater recharge, and provide a reduction of pollutants to the waterways,” Bristol Township Manager Rendee Elton said.
“The Township of Bristol is committed to preserving its natural resources and with the acceptance of this grant funding we are one step closer to that goal,” Council President Craig Bowen said.
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Davis celebrated project and said it will reduce runoff and ensure the water is cleaner.
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