Partnerships Make Great Thing Happen!

You may have noticed a section of Washington Park in Groton was closed temporarily in November for pavement improvements. ECCD and City of Groton Public Works staff have partnered to install approximately 7,500 square feet of porous pavement at four locations on Park Avenue. ECCD was awarded a grant to fund the project and has been busy planning with the City this past Spring and Summer.

On or around Earth Day 2026, there will be a tour/demo of the completed installation for those interested in learning more about the selected product. Also look for a sign at the site to educate the public on the benefits to the community. One great benefit is meeting a goal of the Baker Cove Watershed Committee (Bacwac) to reduce pollutant-laden stormwater runoff from getting into Baker Cove.

This type of porous concrete can be found on the UConn-Storrs Campus and has been used in major cities to infiltrate and keep stormwater runoff out of the storm drain systems during high flood events. Less water entering the storm drains = less harmful pollutants draining to Long Island sound.