Pro • €€€ • Peak shaving

Sponge Street (micro)

Cut curb inlets to send runoff into pocket rain gardens; coordinate with municipality/HOA for design and permits.

Overview

Cut curb inlets to send runoff into pocket rain gardens; coordinate with municipality/HOA for design and permits.

Pro / Contractor€€€Peak shavingMunicipal coordination
Materials
  • Curb-cut inlet components
  • Pocket rain-garden soil & plants
  • Underdrain to storm sewer (as required)
  • Rock armour at inlets/outlets
Tools
  • Concrete saw (by contractor)
  • Excavator or manual tools
  • Compactor, levels
Safety & Risks
  • Traffic control and signage are mandatory.
  • Only qualified contractors should cut concrete curbs.
Maintenance
  • Street sweeping to prevent sediment clogging.
  • Inspect inlets/outlets after storms; replant as needed.
Permits / Notes
  • Municipal right-of-way permit and utility locates required.
Steps
  1. Survey grades and utilities; design storage volume and overflow.
  2. Permit application and traffic management plan.
  3. Cut curb and excavate pocket gardens.
  4. Install underdrain and backfill with engineered soil.
  5. Planting, mulch, and rock armour at inlets.
  6. Commissioning test during rainfall; adjust as needed.