University of Kentucky Stormwater Quality Improvement and Stream Restoration Project Design and Construction

Grants and Contracts Details

Description

An UT to West Hickman Creek is located on the southeast corner of UK’s main campus, across from The Arboretum. This impaired stream drains 0.16 mi2 (102 acres) including portions of Alumni Drive, The Arboretum, and UK’s Athletics Complex. The project is needed as streambank erosion contributes sediment and sediment-bound pollutants (e.g., phosphorus, nitrogen) to downstream waters. Absence of features such as a healthy riparian buffer, pools, and extensive hyporheic zone means nutrients that enter the stream quickly pass through. Short retention times mean that little time is available for plant uptake and microbial transformations, both of which are essential for improving instream water quality. Lack of deep pools and poor quality hyporheic zone means stormwaters quickly pass the stream with little stormwater volume retention or peak reduction. This project titled the University of Kentucky Stormwater Quality Improvement and Stream Restoration Project includes five main elements: 1) stream restoration, 2) riparian buffer establishment, 3) enhanced hyporheic zone, 4) bioinfiltration swale, and 5) outdoor classroom. Total cost for the project is $379,038 of which $79,038 (20.9%) will be provided via cost-share. The project has a myriad of water quality, water quantity, and education benefits for UK students, faculty, and staff as well as the surrounding community. UK is dedicated to the long-term success of the project through its incorporation on instructional and outreach efforts. The project builds upon the success of the Vaughn’s Branch restoration and is highly visible due to its proximity to Alumni Drive (average annual daily traffic of 16,800 vehicles), The Arboretum, and UK’s Athletics Complex.
StatusFinished
Effective start/end date8/31/1812/31/21

Funding

  • Lexington Fayette Urban County Government: $299,400.00

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