South Burlington Schools Await Stormwater Project Approval
South Burlington, VT — The South Burlington School District is navigating delays in a significant stormwater management project at Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School and South Burlington High School. On November 4, regional Act 250 coordinator Stephanie Monaghan ruled that developers must obtain a permit due to the extensive earth disturbance involved in the project, which includes tree-cutting near wetlands and Potash Brook.
This undertaking is part of the Vermont Green Schools Initiative, a collaboration involving the Lake Champlain Sea Grant and Greenprint Partners. The initiative aims to enhance stormwater education and support for public schools within the watersheds of Lake Champlain and Lake Memphremagog, assisting them in complying with the Vermont Clean Water Act.
The planned stormwater improvements, estimated to cost $785,320, will require the school district to contribute 10% of this total, amounting to $78,532. This cost could potentially be funded by recently approved bond money from voters, with additional enhancement projects integrated into the school’s budget.
Engineering Ventures designed the project to mimic the land’s natural water absorption capabilities, incorporating vegetative filters and bioretention systems. These changes aim to reduce flooding and improve the school’s landscape while fulfilling environmental regulatory requirements.
Greenprint’s Laura Burke highlighted that 66 schools are vying for construction under this initiative, with funding limited. Schools can enhance their applications through additional projects, which can include outdoor classrooms and habitat restoration.
The South Burlington district hopes to commence construction in 2025, with plans to integrate educational aspects into their stormwater efforts. The initiative emphasizes active local engagement in environmental stewardship and infrastructure enhancement for schools in Vermont.
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Photo credit vermontbiz.com
