The city is working with the Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association, American Rivers, Downtown Durham Inc., and the Triangle J Council of Governments to identify opportunities for green infrastructure improvements, such as rain gardens and green roofs, that will ultimately improve water quality in the watershed.

The project partners were awarded $60,000 from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to identify these retrofit opportunities as part of EPA’s Urban Waters Program.

“The program aims to help restore urban waters, support community revitalization, and protect Americans’ health,” said Sandra Wilbur, civil engineer with the city. “Healthy and accessible urban waters can help grow local businesses and enhance educational, economic, recreational, employment, and social opportunities in nearby communities.”

The field work, set to end Friday, will take place in the areas which include parts of the Trinity Park, Old North Durham, and Central Park neighborhoods. You can see a map of the study area at ellerbecreek.org.

For more information on the project, contact Chris Dreps with the Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association at 919-698-3680.