Rochester plans stormwater treatment upgrades in parking lot redesign

The Rochester City Council is moving forward with plans to enhance the Union Street parking lot, focusing on improving stormwater management and pedestrian access. This initiative stems from a 2018 study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which identified key areas for improvement in the city’s infrastructure, particularly regarding pedestrian and vehicle routes.

One of the significant findings from the study highlighted the parking lot's inadequate stormwater management, which currently relies on catch basins that do not treat runoff before it enters the river. This has contributed to pollution issues in the area, specifically nitrogen and phosphorus levels. As part of a settlement with the Conservation Law Foundation, Rochester is required to enhance its stormwater treatment, making this project a crucial step in addressing environmental concerns.

The proposed redesign will not only improve stormwater treatment through the installation of bioretention basins and tree pits but will also increase the parking capacity from 97 to 99 spaces. The new layout will include five accessible parking spots and infrastructure for four future electric vehicle charging stations, although the timeline for these installations remains uncertain.

In addition to these improvements, the city plans to enhance pedestrian access by closing Barker Court to vehicle traffic, transforming it into a walkway. This change aims to create a safer environment for pedestrians and may facilitate future two-way traffic on Union Street.

As the project progresses, interpretive signs will be installed to educate the public about the new stormwater features, further engaging the community in environmental stewardship. The city is committed to ensuring that these enhancements not only meet regulatory requirements but also improve the overall experience for residents and visitors alike.