Bioswale A landscaped, engineered street-side channel designed to capture, filter, and naturally absorb stormwater runoff from surrounding paved areas.
Bioswales are modern green infrastructure assets managed by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to keep heavy rainwater out of the sewer system. These vegetated pits feature deep absorbent soil layers, native plants, and a surrounding concrete curb cut that lets street-level water flow in. Sidewalk repairs near public bioswales must be handled with care to avoid disturbing their engineered drainage properties, compaction of their soils, or damage to their protective railings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bioswale
What is a bioswale?
A landscaped, engineered street-side channel that captures, filters and absorbs stormwater runoff from surrounding paved areas.
Who manages them?
The Department of Environmental Protection, as part of the city's green infrastructure program.
How does one work?
A curb opening admits street water into a vegetated pit with engineered soil layers that absorb and filter it instead of sending it to the sewer.
What should a contractor avoid near a bioswale?
Compacting its soils, blocking the inlet, altering surrounding grades or damaging its railings and plantings during sidewalk work.