LID Method - Roads

Roads create the largest areas of impervious cover in residential developments. New roads can be designed to be narrower (18-24 ft) and built without curbs to greatly reduce the runoff generated in residential and commercial areas. Unimpeded by curbs, stormwater will naturally run off the roadsides to be captured in grassed swales or rain gardens. These landscape features are both attractive and low maintenance. Existing roads can be retrofitted with curb cuts and treatment swales or gardens to intercept runoff. The Massachusetts Low Impact Development Toolkit is a helpful resource.