DOI

10.5703/1288284316332

Abstract

The project objective was to conduct a detailed literature review of storm water pollutants and mitigation technologies and synthesize the information so that INDOT can implement project results into standards. Because it is a municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4), INDOT is required to minimize storm water pollution. A literature review was carried-out to gauge pollutants examined by other transportation agencies, the pollutant’s relevance to Indiana roadways, and the effectiveness of storm water pollution minimization best management practices (BMP). A cost benefit analysis was also conducted for a few BMP devices used in Indiana. Results showed that a variety of databases contained BMP testing studies and the same type of BMP may not perform similarly at different sites. Some BMPs can also generate pollutants. Very little BMP design, cost, and performance data were obtained during this study from INDOT and municipalities contacted due to the organizations being unable to access it. Manufacturer self-reported BMP device performance data found was not corroborated by independent device testing data. Reliance on manufacturer reported data greatly overestimated the device’s cost benefit; field validated device performance data are needed. Based on project results INDOT should consider (1) establishing agency-wide procedures to begin collecting pertinent storm water BMP information from ongoing and planned projects, (2) surveying which and how many BMPs are under INDOT control, (3) applying caution when estimating BMP performance based on manufacturer reported data or BMP performance data from other parts of the U.S., (4) conducting a field investigation to determine pollutant removal effectiveness for select BMPs.

Report Number

FHWA/IN/JTRP-2016/09

Keywords

stormwater, BMP, pollution, runoff, treatment, water

SPR Number

3941

Performing Organization

Joint Transportation Research Program

Publisher Place

West Lafayette, Indiana

Date of this Version

2016

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