Greenwich Council debates drainage standards amid climate impacts and growing storm intensity

Concerns over drainage standards took center stage at the Greenwich Planning & Zoning Commission meeting on February 25, 2025, as members discussed the implications of increasingly frequent storms on local infrastructure. The dialogue was sparked by a conditional drainage exemption submitted by an engineer, which currently adheres to a 10-year storm design standard.

Commission member Mr. Wells raised a critical point, questioning whether the design could be adjusted to accommodate a 25-year storm, given the rising frequency of severe weather events. "Ten-year storms are coming more frequently than every ten years," he noted, emphasizing the need for enhanced protection, especially for vulnerable areas like the Brunswick preschool located downstream.

While the current exemption meets existing Department of Public Works standards, the commission expressed a desire for more robust measures. Mr. Cohen, representing the applicant, agreed to explore the possibility of increasing the infiltration capacity but cautioned that any changes would depend on engineering assessments and cost implications.

The discussion highlighted a broader concern among commission members regarding the adequacy of current drainage regulations in light of changing climate patterns. Mr. Love pointed out that existing guidelines do not reflect the reality of more intense and frequent storms, urging the board to take proactive steps to bolster drainage protections across the town.

As the meeting concluded, the commission committed to further discussions with engineers to evaluate the feasibility of enhancing drainage systems, reflecting a growing recognition of the need to adapt to evolving environmental challenges. The outcome of these discussions could lead to significant changes in local planning and zoning practices, aiming to safeguard the community against future flooding risks.