Zero Runoff Street Median Water Conservation Program
Program Summary
This pilot program provides funding for the replacement of existing street medians or parkways that are wasting water and/or causing water runoff. For this program, water efficient street medians and parkways are designed to reduce water use by at least 50% and water runoff by 100%. This program proposes the replacement of existing street medians and parkways with any of the following components: artificial turf, porous cover, native and/or drought tolerant plants, drip irrigation, or Smart Irrigation Controllers.
Eligibility
Those eligible to apply for funding through this program are the 17 cities and unincorporated areas within West Basin’s service area.
Funding
Up to 50% of the costs may be awarded, but no more than $15,000 per applicant. Funding is limited. This is the last round of funding for this program.
Due Date
October 30, 2009
For questions about the program, contact Leighanne Kirk at 310-660-6225 or leighannek@westbasin.org.
City of Inglewood Retrofit
The City of Inglewood was awarded $12,200 in funding through this program to retrofit the Hardy Slope street median along Crenshaw Blvd at Hardy. The median is 25,000 square feet and previously consisted of slopes of ivy. The new landscaping is comprised of native, drought tolerant plants, irrigated with a smart sprinkler controller and drip irrigation system. This retrofit will save 76,000 gallons of water each year.
Pictured, right: City Councilmembers Ralph Franklin and Danny Tabor dedicate the Hardy Street Median with West Basin Board President Gloria Gray.
City of Lomita Retrofit
The City of Lomita was awarded $10,000 in funding through this program for the retrofit of their parkway at the City’s Pumping Plant and Pressure Reduction Station on Appian Way. Before the retrofit, the parkway consisted of turf and used 29,952 gallons per month. Once the retrofit was completed with the installation of drought-tolerant plants and a water-efficient irrigation system, the parkway only uses 2,605 gallons per month! This is a reduction of 91%!
The landscape was also graded to ensure zero runoff of water from the site. This garden not only conserves water and reduces runoff, it provides habitat for native birds and butterflies and is aesthetically-pleasing to the community.
