Division Services
A major component to improve our nearshore water quality involves the treatment of our island's stormwater runoff. Currently, storm runoff carries various pollutants (oils, trash, fertilizer, etc.) into our storm drains where they are eventually released through 63 outfalls into our nearshore waters with very little filtration taking place.
As improvements are made at intersections throughout the city, our most effective means of pollutantreduction and water flow reduction is a well system. As water flows down the street it enters a pollution control device and then flows down a well, and then slowly makes it's way filtering throughrock to the ocean. Although wells are thepreferred method,there are still piping systems that flow directly to the nearshore waters. The result is a significant improvement in water quality and fewer beach closures.
This project will also help improve stormwater drainage, thereby lessening the effects of flooding due to rain. No stormwater system can mitigate the effects of a hurricane storm surge. To improve stormwater management, the City hired OMI in FY 1995 to perform cleaning and spot repair. If you are having problems with the storm drains in your neighborhood, please call OMI at 305-292-5100.
In addition, a stormwater capital plan has been developed to prevent flooding, divert stormwater flow from outfalls, and reduce/eliminate discharge of pollutants and contamination of near shore waters. The plan provides for a more comprehensive management system and includes installation of five pump-assist injection wells, elimination and/or retrofit of 63 outfalls, installation of 293 injection wells and retrofit of existing injection wells. Vertical french drains have already been designed and installed addressing small areas of standing water in an affordable, cost effective way.
For information on our Municipal Separate Stormwater System (MS4)program contact Elizabeth Ignaffo at 305-809-3966.
Related NewsThe City of Key West is utilizing state grants and federal stimulus dollars to help fund the construction of 27 stormwater gravity wells and 5 outfall pollution control devices in neighborhoods around Key West. These wells are designed to...
Click on the link to learn what you can do to help keep pollutants out of our stormwater system and help protect our near-shore water quality and coral reefs!
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