Use greener framework in projects, council says

12/18/2008

Toledo City Council approved a resolution this week directing the Toledo Plan Commission to incorporate "green infrastructure," such as pervious concrete and a greater use of rain gardens, into Toledo's planning and zoning code.

Councilman Joe McNamara, who suggested the idea, said Toledo could get greener by using porous concrete, which allows water to drain through rather than letting it run off into sewers and streams. He said pervious pavement also lessens the chances of flooding by reducing water runoff.

The concrete costs about the same as more commonly used concrete, Mr. McNamara said.

The city's zoning codes currently do not recognize pervious concrete except for some small purposes.

The resolution, approved 11-0 by council Tuesday, also recommends the city encourage rain gardens, or green areas used to soak in water around large, impermeable surfaces, such as parking lots. Councilman Phillip Copeland was not present.

The matter will go before the plan commission for its consideration. If it approves the measure, the commission would pass a recommendation to be approved by council.