The Island Gateway has taken strides to reverse this polluted history, and thanks to some innovative drainage and filtration techniques, harmful run-off to the ravine has been greatly reduced - if not eliminated - even during the construction process. Water filtration on the construction site exceeds both State DOE and LEED requirements, and we can proudly say that 98% of sediment is contained on site!
All storm water run-off from the construction site is diverted to the on-site Rain For Rent water filtration system. This system funnels the water through a series of tanks with natural filtration systems made from organic marine matter. While the system does not treat for common bacteria, such as Giardia, the water that exits this system into the City’s catch basin is as clear and clean as drinking water.
The completed site will host a number of design features that will help keep the stream in the Winslow Ravine clean. Permeable surfaces will increase by 13,170 square feet (almost a third of an acre) by replacing paved areas with landscaping; the ravine edge will be enhanced with native species to naturally filter rainwater; storm water from paved areas will be treated by two permanent Storm Filter systems, which filter out soluble heavy metals, oil, grease and other urban pollutants before the runoff enters the City’s storm water system; and portions of the buildings will have living rooftops and a living wall. All of these low impact development techniques will help to slow and filter the flow of storm water run-off before it leaves the site.
Perhaps one of the most important ways The Island Gateway is protecting the Winslow Ravine is by simply leaving it alone for the Island community. The project site includes 2.2 acres of Winslow Ravine that are being left undeveloped. This protected space, combined with the strict regulation of storm water run-off from both the construction site and the completed development will help to ensure the continued thriving health of the Winslow Ravine for years to come.
To see The Island Gateway’s construction site water filtration systems in action come to the Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce’s Eco-Tour of the site on Sunday, April 25th from 11am to 4pm. Visit http://www.bainbridgechamber.com or call 206.842.3700 for more info.
Happy Earth Month!
