The National Ready Mixed Concrete Assn. (NRMCA) has promoted pervious concrete to federal officials in a series of nationwide public hearings aimed at reducing storm water discharges from new developments. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently held the meetings in Chicago, Denver, Dallas and Washington, each aimed at soliciting input as part of the EPA’s goal of establishing a comprehensive program to reduce storm water discharges from new development and redevelopments and to make other regulatory improvements to strengthen its storm water program. The storm water discharges of separate municipal storm sewer systems (MS4s) were also discussed along with general comments about the storm water program.
“Pervious concrete is the perfect solution to help minimize the amount of storm water runoff from developed areas,” said NRMCA President Robert Garbini. “NRMCA is asking the EPA to assist industries with compliance assistance and equitable enforcement. Companies want to comply but the regulations are very confusing and some contradict each other.”
Garbini informed EPA officials that NRMCA’s Green-Star Program is a “perfect example” of how NRMCA and EPA officials can work on collaborative efforts to help make the environment a better place.
“Pervious concrete is a great solution to minimizing the pollutants that enter our nation’s waterways because it allows storm water to percolate directly through the pavement and into the soil beneath to recharge groundwater and aquifers,” said David Ayers, NRMCA managing director of compliance.
The six members of the EPA staff were interested in obtaining additional data on pervious concrete. NRMCA is submitting extensive comments in response to these listening sessions.
