Project

Stormwater runoff is the most significant contributor to pollution in Puget Sound and designing creative solutions to large-scale stormwater treatment needs is critical to meeting Puget Sound cleanup goals. The Chambers Lake Stormwater Treatment Facility removes pollution in stormwater runoff from the largest untreated stormwater outfall to Chambers Lake. More important, the facility demonstrates how stormwater treatment can be accomplished while also creating a highly valued community asset. First envisioned more than twenty years ago, this facility was ranked as the highest-priority water quality project in the City of Lacey’s capital improvement plan. The project transformed a 6.9-acre lakeshore site from an invasive plant-infested dumping ground, into a park-like wetland complex. The Herrera team’s alternatives analysis, sound engineering recommendations, creative landscaping solutions, and attention to the desires of the City and local citizens were essential to successfully managing challenges posed by onsite wetlands, mature trees, and utilities while effectively treating the large volume of stormwater. The project design and permitting were completed on an aggressive six month schedule. The resulting facility is an effective, sustainable stormwater treatment system that also enhances a beautiful shoreline setting, creates improved wildlife habitat, and provides a great community asset with trails, benches, viewing areas, and other amenities for citizens to enjoy.