July 7, 2008 – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) have reached a long-awaited decision regarding stormwater management requirements for highway facilities. For the next five years, ODOT regulations for post-construction BMPs have been incorporated into the OEPA NPDES permit, giving public authorities more alternatives and greater flexibility in designing post-construction BMPs for roadway projects.

The agreement also includes a provision allowing for offsite and regional mitigation of post-construction requirements as an alternative to BMPs, if certain criteria are met.

How does the decision affect municipalities and other public entities?

This decision provides guidance when it comes to designing stormwater management systems for roadway projects, and streamlines the process for obtaining OEPA NPDES permits. In addition, public authorities now have the option of following ODOT requirements, and have greater flexibility to design and construct the most cost-effective stormwater management solution.

Details about this decision are outlined in a General Permit issued by the Ohio EPA. To obtain a copy go to: Ohio EPA Permit.

If you have questions about this decision or need help understanding how the new OEPA NPDES permit can affect future roadway projects, please feel free to contact ksassociates at contactks@ksassociates.com.

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