The American Public Works Association North Carolina Chapter (APWA-NC) and the American Council of Engineering Companies of North Carolina (ACEC/NC) recognized the Odie Street Drainage Improvements project with multiple awards.
The APWA-NC honored the endeavor with the Stormwater Green Infrastructure Project of the Year Award and was accepted by Jason Doll at the organization’s 2023 Stormwater Management Division Conference in Charlotte. In addition, the ACEC/NC awarded KCI with its Engineering Excellence Award in the Water & Environment category at the Engineering Excellence Awards ceremony and was accepted by Doll and Leah Young on behalf of the firm.
Aiming to revitalize a diverse and underserved single-family neighborhood on the northwest side of Hillsborough, KCI was tasked with planning and designing green stormwater infrastructure within the Town’s right-of-way to help reduce flooding and provide water quality improvement as part of a collaborative effort with the Town of Hillsborough, Habitat for Humanity, and the Piedmont Conservation Council.
After overcoming challenges such as limited right-of-way, existing utilities, and varying grades, our team provided design solutions to creatively address these constraints, optimize space, and incorporate innovative design features such as bioswales and other green infrastructure. With a communication barrier posed by non-English-fluent residents, KCI developed outreach materials in three languages and engaged translators during public meetings to effectively address resident inquiries and concerns while fostering community acceptance. With improvements now complete, the community can experience a more sustainable and resilient atmosphere through reduced stormwater runoff and enhanced environmental health and aesthetics.
