On September 28, the City of Alexandria’s Phase II Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Program was recognized by the Water Environment Federation’s (WEF) National Municipal Stormwater and Green Infrastructure Awards Program as a Gold-level community and winner in the Innovation category.

The National Municipal Stormwater and Green Infrastructure Awards Program is led by WEF through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The initiative was established to recognize high-performing Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Programs that seek innovative ways to meet and exceed regulatory requirements through technically effective and financially efficient approaches.

The City’s MS4 Stormwater Program received the highest points for the Innovation category for 1) promoting flexible compliance in allowing developers to meet more stringent local requirements by either installing stormwater treatment practices or making a payment to the City’s Water Quality Improvement Fund; 2) creating local public-private partnerships to protect the Chesapeake Bay; 3) creating internal stakeholder groups to address water quality; 4) dedicating funds to the City’s stormwater program needs; and 5) applying an integrated approach to meeting stormwater and combined sewer requirements.

Visit the Water Environment Federation National Municipal Stormwater and Green Infrastructure Web page for more information about the Award. For more information about the City’s MS4 Program, visit the City’s Watershed Management Page.

For media inquiries, contact Kathleen Leonard, Communications Officer, at kathleen.leonard@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.4027.