Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services (CMSWS) will soon begin construction on its first-ever design-build project, which will generate stream and wetland mitigation units for the City of Charlotte Umbrella Stream and Wetland Mitigation Bank.
Located within Charlotte’s environmentally significant Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, the Reedy Creek Stream restoration project includes approximately 27,400 linear feet of stream restoration and enhancement, 14,700 linear feet of stream preservation, and four acres of wetland enhancement and protection. CMSWS and Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation are partners on this project.
“We are excited to partner with Storm Water Services to restore and protect this incredibly valuable community asset. The restored streams and wetlands of the Reedy Creek Nature Preserve will be enjoyed by many generations to come,” said Chris Matthews, Nature Preserve and Natural Resources division director at Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation.
Stream restoration contractor North State Environmental Inc. will begin site work in July. Construction and planting are expected to continue through March 2019. Design engineering firm Wildlands Engineering Inc., a full-service ecosystem restoration firm headquartered in Charlotte, will oversee construction.
Portions of trails in the nature preserve, including the Sierra Loop, South Fork, and Robinson Rockhouse trails, will temporarily close while the streams are rebuilt. Trails will reopen upon completion of the project and will include new footbridge crossings over the restored creek channels.
“The Reedy Creek Stream restoration project will improve our local environment, and create opportunity for infrastructure projects like roads, light rail and utilities,” said William Harris, CMSWS project manager. “It’s a win-win for residents and the environment. Efforts like the Reedy Creek Stream restoration initiative are what give Charlotte a competitive edge and healthy environment.”
Project updates are available on the project website.