Low Impact Design and Green Infrastructure for Sandwich Library

HW worked with the Town of Sandwich to improve a library parking lot that was inefficient and experiencing flooding and stormwater challenges.

Opportunity

HW recommended several design concepts and worked closely with the Town to create a final design that has significantly improved library access.

Solution

Green infrastructure now diverts rainwater to landscaped areas and protects the parking lot and the nearby wetland from flooding. The improvements feature bioretention elements that filter the contaminants in the rainwater all while providing a beautiful area filled with moisture loving, native plants. Pretreated stormwater then travels to an on-site wetland as well as a nearby salt marsh. HW implemented low impact design elements, which include grass swales, bioretention areas, and infiltration; all designed to improve stormwater flow

Results

HW also provided permitting assistance for applications to the Conservation and Historic Commissions. HW provided construction plans and specifications, cost estimates, public bidding assistance, and surveying and construction administration. Lastly, HW escalated the project timeline so that the town could utilize the services of a paving contractor working nearby on municipal roads